Letter: Wised up

Sir: Where has the phrase "dumbing down" ("Radio 4 takes the blame for the dumbing down of the nation", 29 July) come from? It seems to me that what is happening is that a large number of people in this country are finally becoming aware that they have been subsidising institutions such as Radio 4 and The Royal Opera House for tiny minority audiences. And now they want access and changes. Surely not dumbing down - more like "wising up".

BEN CHALLIS

London N1