Post #269029 by Tiki Kollektor on Mon, Nov 27, 2006 3:05 PM

When I was in college back in the mid 80's, a sociology professor of mine commented that in her opinion "The Preppy Handbook" was the most important piece of American sociological research in the second half of the 20th century. She was being somewhat tongue-in-cheek of course, but her point was a good one -- a ground-breaking work by a savvy "insider" that took a massive, but practically invisible, American cultural phenomenon and unveiled it to the world. In turn, the book's influence was enormous (50 zillion IZOD shirts sold!).

After reading BOT from cover to cover not long ago (hardcover copy purchased for $26 on eBay), and being of an age where I was just able to have some real life associations to make the context somewhat personal, I have to say that "The Preppy Handbook" may just be the SECOND most important piece of American sociological research in the 2nd half of the 20th century! (thanks Sven)

Have faith TC old-timers -- at least some of us newbies get it (maybe the ones who don't post so much :)