Word: standardism
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Dates: during 1930-1939
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...five out of six "standard" astrology books that Dr. Farnsworth examined, it appeared that a person born under Libra ("The Scales"), seventh of the zodiac's twelve signs, should have musical ability. Libra's children are those born from September 24 to October 23. Looking up the birth dates of 1,498 musicians, Dr. Farnsworth found that fewer were born under this sign than under any other except Scorpio. Libra and Scorpio were in fact tied for last place as musician-makers. Thus in picking a musical sign the astrologists could have made ten better choices than Libra...
...verbal shinny-can long since whanged out of all shape or precision, art-lovers went to see for themselves. Most of them concluded that the Institute's 17th, representing many of the top-flight artists of 14 nations, was indeed contemporary but well up to its lively standard...
...novel receiving the award is cast in the same mold of undistinguishable mediocrity, harmless, until it is puffed up as a great American work of art. Herein lies the evil: the Pulitzer Committee by putting its stamp of approval on such flimsy material, sets a standard of mediocrity which is believed and accepted in the nation as the best. Their prizes throw an effective smoke screen over the strong efforts in American writing, permitting persevering incompetents and academic rhymesters to practice their lack of art in the spotlight of public approval. It is true that they stir up public interest...
...Frank set the standard," concluded his author, "that I understand all true Yale men to this day have lived up to--not to drink, not to smoke, and never to swear...
...Monday lecture the noted Swedish economist discussed several plans for halting the decline in the birth rate. He urged the necessity of four children in every family, insisting that this standard must be reached...