Archive · 18 Nov 2025
New Book 'Blank Space' Sparks Debate on 21st Century Culture's Blandness
A new book says today's music, movies, and art are all the same and not very creative.
Some people agree, but others say the book doesn't see how things have always been like this.
W. David Marx's 'Blank Space' argues 21st-century culture is bland and unoriginal
Marx blames 'omnivorism' for the lack of distinct musical styles and artistic innovation
The New York Times Magazine echoes Marx's concerns about cultural stagnation
The Economist agrees with Marx's observations but finds his arguments oversimplified
Art in America criticizes Marx's historical perspective and positivist views
- Who
- W. David Marx, author of 'Blank Space'
- What
- Argues about the lack of originality in 21st-century culture
- When
- The book was recently published
- Where
- The debate is happening in various media outlets
- Why
- To discuss the state of modern culture and its perceived lack of innovation
Proponents of Marx's Argument
Critics of Marx's Argument
Cultural Stagnation
Proponents of Marx's Argument
21st-century culture lacks originality and innovation
Critics of Marx's Argument
Cultural stagnation is not a new phenomenon and has always existed
Historical Perspective
Proponents of Marx's Argument
History shows a linear progression of successive innovations
Critics of Marx's Argument
History is messy and does not follow a clean, linear progression
- Book Title
- 'Blank Space'
- Author
- W. David Marx
- Primary Topic
- Cultural blandness in the 21st century
- Main Argument
- Lack of originality and innovation in modern culture
- Criticism
- Oversimplification and misguided historical perspective