In the article “Everybody’s a Critic. And That’s How It Should Be,” A.O. Scott’s main argument is that everyone is and should be a critic. Being a critic is not easy at all. Most people view critics as the ones who likes to “step” on artists’ works. However, they are actually the ones who has personal opinions/recommendations, which then turns into persuasive arguments. If there were no criticisms and whatever movies come out, everyone is satisfying with, then there will be no improvements. Criticism is great because it makes you to want to do better than before and to prove to the critics that they are wrong.

Students like me and you are also critics. Things that we write on this blog are commented by our fellow classmates. They are the one who are critiquing our works. A.O. Scott view a critic not only just an occupation, but something that everyone should be. It is a skill to have, to question other people’s works. Sharing ideas can lead better results in a movie, drama, article, performance, or play. While reading this piece, it reminds me of my philosophy class. We learn to be open-minded and accept different perspectives of an idea. We do not have to agree on everything that our classmate say, but at least be respectful and listen.

I like how the author emphasize that a critic’s primary job is to think. I totally agree with him because even if you want to criticize someone’s work, you have to have a good response. If your response is poor, no one will buy it. This might be why some critics are looked upon as snobs. We have brains for reasons, and their missions is to think. Scott said it nicely in one sentence “We have the ability to judge what we made, to argue about why we are moved, mystified, delighted or bored by any of it”. We all have our own thoughts and opinions, so let’s share them like the critics!