Posted by Dr. Science on 02/17/2012 in
Question |
Why is the alphabet in that order?
———- from Steven Station of Bloomington MN
It’s because of the song. Never underestimate the music industry’s effect on the rest of us. Some tin pan alley hack writes a catchy tune, and every library in western civilization has to organize all entries to the whims of some whiney songwriter. I know it doesn’t make logical sense…but what does, especially when you’re dealing with popular culture? I think the song’s popularity comes from its sing-song nature, so understandable and easy to remember. Market to kids, and adults will follow. Every fast food restaurant knows that, and now even the librarians do, too.
