Edmundson states: “they are, almost everywhere, very, very self-reliant…there is little fire, little passion to be found” ( Edmundson, 3). Edmundson's critique of consumer culture includes criticism of the students themselves and their lack of passion. Deresiewicz's interpretation of youth culture undermines this "little passion" by seeking for youth to change the current wave of academic culture and its lack of learning. Although it is important to note that Edmundson's criticism of youth was about the students of the 90s, while Deresiewicz seems hopeful about the youth of the 2010s. Today and those of the 1990s in historical context may differ in their passions for higher education and change. Although this timeline puts each context of the work into perspective, it is not unfair to criticize Edmundson's superior tone when focusing on the youth of his time. Edmundson's view of college students shifts away from those who need it most to realize his vision of a better college culture.