Rants

Posted on 8 Jun 2009 at 15:26

Are you stupid or something?

Can't you even use a computer? Durr! That's what I used to think when looking at the covers of the 'For Dummies' books when they were first published. They're so ubiquitous now, covering such a wide range of subjects, that the 'For Dummies' titles have become less insulting and are almost reassuring. Or maybe we've just become used to being called idiots.

Wiley, the publisher, has recently raised its game. Some new 'For Dummies' books have arrived in the office that take the word 'patronising' to a new level. Just last week I received a copy of Macs for Seniors for Dummies. To me the title is basically saying that old people are super-thick. A regular 'For Dummies' book isn't going to cut it. Oh, no - we need to have a special, extra-simplified version for that sub-species known as the over-50s.

Not only that, but it's a book about using a Mac computer. This book is aimed at stupid, old people who can't even use a Mac. I'm not sure that these people exist - and, if they do, I wonder how many will enjoy making the trip to the cashier with this book in hand?

Technical books, even those aimed at the sub-normal, are always going to challenge the reader to a certain degree. Imagine what it would be like, when you get stuck on something, to remember that not only is the book designed for the daft but it's also been written for the decrepit. I can't believe your self-esteem is going anywhere but down.

The question is, are we happy to buy books that call us dumb? The success of the 'For Dummies' books suggests that we are. So I'm wrong about the whole thing. Next stop: Amazon and Anger Management for Dummies.

Author: Simon Edwards

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous Features : General Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.