Summary of This Is Water by David Foster Wallace Full Speech

00:00:00 - 00:20:00

David Foster Wallace gives a speech on the importance of a liberal arts education, and how it is not just about filling you up with knowledge. He argues that the real education we receive is in the choice of what to think about. He urges the audience to be aware of the real value of education, and to stay conscious.

• 00:00:00 In his commencement speech, David Foster Wallace discusses the importance of a liberal arts education, which is not just about filling you up with knowledge. He argues that the real education we receive is in the choice of what to think about.
• 00:05:00 The speaker discusses the idea that one of the main purposes of a liberal arts education is to teach students how to think critically and to exercise some control over their thoughts and experiences. He argues that this is not a matter of virtue, but a matter of learning how to avoid becoming a "total slave to your head." He provides an example of how someone can become a slave to their thoughts by becoming bored and frustrated with their everyday life.
• 00:10:00 Wallace gives a speech about how petty, frustrating, and meaningless aspects of adult life can be a place where work of choosing takes place. He refers to these situations as "the work of choosing," and explains that if one chooses to think in a certain way, these mundane tasks become easier.
• 00:15:00 David Foster Wallace discusses the default settings we operate on, which include being un aware of what we're doing. Wallace describes how this can lead to unhappiness and suffering. He concludes by urging people to learn how to think and to pay attention, so they can choose to worship in a more meaningful way.
• 00:20:00 David Foster Wallace gives a speech on the importance of education, and the task of staying conscious in the adult world. He points out that education is a lifelong job, and that it is hard to do. He urges the audience to be aware of the real value of education, and to stay conscious.