This episode explores the history and cultural impact of Cliffs Notes, the study guides known for their yellow and black covers. The hosts, Josh and Chuck, discuss the origins of Cliffs Notes, which were started by Cliff Hillegas in 1958, who initially distributed Cole's Notes before creating his own version. Against the backdrop of Hillegas's biography, the discussion pivots to the controversy surrounding the ethics of Hillegas's business practices, particularly his appropriation of the idea from Jack Cole. More significantly, the hosts delve into the criticism that Cliffs Notes encourage students to avoid reading original works, despite Hillegas's intent for them to be used as supplementary material. As the discussion unfolds, the hosts reflect on their personal experiences with Cliffs Notes, and the shift in the company's marketing strategy after Hillegas sold it. The episode concludes by considering the value of reading original literature versus relying on study guides, and the cultural relevance of Cliffs Notes in contemporary education.
