This used to annoy the you know what out of me until I became a high school teacher. Although I teach Theology, not history, it's amazing how little my students know about anything in the humanities (philosphy, history, music, literature) and how little they know about their own faith. I place the blame on the system (too much self-esteem fluff and not enough emphasis on real achievement) and the parents (failing to turn off the computer, TV and game consoles).

I think a lot of it has to do with the lack of interest in reading. This year, I've turned off the TV (with exceptions for NFL, NHL, MLB games and select programs on the History, Discovery channels). My wife and I hit the local public library and pick up books to read every two weeks. I've discovered that my concentration is improving as well as an revived interest in learning as much as I can about everything.

I'll get off my soapbox. There is one upside - most of the books on history, philosophy and literature are never wait-listed at the library.