Chase Corbitt 

English Composition II 

Professor Hammett 

Essay 2 Rhetorical Analysis 

24 April 2023 

Word Count: (1007)

​

 Camus and Illiteracy  

        Albert Camus, who lived from 1913-1960, was filled with groundbreaking philosophical ideas on existentialism coupled with insightful perspectives on absurdism. He criticized injustice and inequality and demonstrated his dedication towards advocating for social equality. While he never spoke on illiteracy itself, he spoke passionately on the meaning of life and his concern for the human condition. Using this information, an idea for how Albert Camus would view the illiteracy epidemic, were he alive today, can be extrapolated. He would believe that illiteracy is derived from a broader range of societal issues. His perspective about humanity’s search for meaning in an inherently meaningless existence remains valid today, linked with our age-old struggle against ignorance everywhere – including the problem of functional literacy. If he were alive today, Camus would argue that the illiteracy epidemic is a result of a larger societal problem concerning inequality and injustice, the pursuit of personal freedom, and is ultimately a symptom of the absurdity of modern life.  

         Illiterate people are negatively impacted by their inability to read or write - excluding them from educational opportunities while eliminating their chances of accessing critical information, including civic involvements. The negative impact caused by educational exclusion cannot be overstated, resulting in poverty, isolation, and limited access to necessary services for affected individuals. Such grim consequences can diminish the importance placed on finding meaning in one's life highlighted by Camus. In his novel, The Myth of Sisyphus, he writes, “I see many people die because they judge that life is not worth living. I see others paradoxically getting killed for the ideas or illusions that give them a reason for living (what is called a reason for living is also an excellent reason for dying). I therefore conclude that the meaning of life is the most urgent of questions” (4). This question is what his worldview is founded upon, yet never fully answers the question. He believed that the struggle to find meaning in life is an essential need for all humans regardless of social status or background.  

        Camus is known for his rejection of existential views of the world yet posed multiple existential questions about personal freedom. In Camus’ novel, The Plague he writes, "They fancied themselves free, and no one will ever be free so long as there are pestilences" (37). While acknowledging that people have an inherent freedom to make their own choices, he argued that this freedom is burdensome; Particularly when aspects within society seem limiting or not catered towards individual growth. In this context, illiteracy can be seen as an indicator of wider societal issues surrounding inequality, where poverty directly affects independence and decision-making power for those suffering from educational disadvantage.  

        Similarly, Camus believed that the inequalities laid out in society are a direct result of a social system that favored the rich and most fortunate of people, to the detriment of the poor and disadvantaged. Camus presents his thoughts about equality in The Rebel, saying, “The spirit of rebellion can only exist in a society where theoretical equality conceals great factual inequalities” (20). In the same context, the illiteracy epidemic can be viewed as a result of a failed system, of which does not provide equal opportunity. Thus, understanding the scope of illiteracy requires moving beyond individual concerns, towards recognizing it as a societal issue demanding unity so that every person has equal access to educational resources, regardless of their background or economic status. The cost associated with ignoring this problem threatens social connectivity since those affected cannot participate productively in society, leading everyone into a dangerous cycle of rejection and inequality.  

        Conversely, Camus could perhaps have no regard or sympathy for this epidemic, as he believed that human existence had no rational meaning or purpose. In an interview documented in a magazine in the mid 1940’s, Albert says, "The literal meaning of life is whatever you're doing that prevents you from killing yourself" (Archives Départementales De La Gironde). He is suggesting that life is inherently meaningless and is a repeated cycle until death. However, he believes that the search for purpose in life is essential. His beliefs can be very paradoxical. Why would anyone have regard for societal issues if they believed there was no meaning in life? He recognized that people often deny this belief and attempt to identify or create their own personal meaning in life. The fulfillment of human potential is also in question when examining the illiteracy epidemic. Some people may not seek out their purpose or meaning of life, which can decrease curiosity and willingness to learn and potentially result in illiteracy. 

        Along with an epidemic such as illiteracy, there are some negative effects that Camus would most likely make note of. One of these negative effects that he would perhaps notice especially is how some who are illiterate are not able to fully express themselves. As we see in Camus’ novel, The Rebel, “Every act of rebellion expresses a nostalgia for innocence and an appeal to the essence of being.” (105). In studying Camus and his works, it becomes evident that he is passionate about the terrors of injustice and oppression. He believed that rebellion is a natural human response and has been corrupted due to the systems put in place within society. People that are illiterate are not able to think freely and express themselves fully. This would be disappointing for Albert to observe because man would no longer have the authentic desire to live freely. He recognizes that these acts of rebellion are not out of spite, but simply for a longing to be absolutely free. Truly absurd. 

        If Albert Camus were still in this world today, engaging in modern worldviews, he would find it humorous to see the desire for happiness and concern for the meaning of existence. Camus's philosophical ideals around the pursuit of meaning in life would interpret low literacy rates as indicative of the absurdity that surrounds us. Therefore, he would contend that combating this crisis mandates a collective solution, founded on universal objectives such as justice and equality.