Gary Horton
Gary Horton
Source: The Signal
Date: 06/17/2026 12:53am
Article Summary:
**Rise of the Village Idiots: What Benjamin Franklin Would Think of America’s Spectacle Culture**
In a column reflecting on Benjamin Franklin’s 13 virtues, Gary Horton contrasts the Founding Father’s commitment to self-improvement with what he sees as today’s culture of spectacle and outrage, highlighted by a recent UFC event at the White House and inflammatory remarks made there. Horton argues that modern technology and social media amplify ignorance and sensationalism, rewarding attention-seeking behavior over substance. He urges a return to education, humility and personal responsibility as essential foundations for a healthy republic.
Read article here »
Date: 06/17/2026 12:53am
Article Summary:
**Rise of the Village Idiots: What Benjamin Franklin Would Think of America’s Spectacle Culture**
In a column reflecting on Benjamin Franklin’s 13 virtues, Gary Horton contrasts the Founding Father’s commitment to self-improvement with what he sees as today’s culture of spectacle and outrage, highlighted by a recent UFC event at the White House and inflammatory remarks made there. Horton argues that modern technology and social media amplify ignorance and sensationalism, rewarding attention-seeking behavior over substance. He urges a return to education, humility and personal responsibility as essential foundations for a healthy republic.
Read article here »