The Rise of Anti-Intellectualism: Why It’s Common in Many Countries
Anti-intellectualism, the disdain for intellectual or scholarly pursuits, is a phenomenon that is gaining traction in various parts of the world. This attitude is not confined to a single country or culture but has become a common trend globally. In this article, we will explore why anti-intellectualism is on the rise and delve into its underlying causes.
Anti-Intellectualism as a Component of Populism
One of the most significant factors contributing to the rise of anti-intellectualism is its association with populist movements. In many countries, populist leaders exploit the sentiment of feeling left behind among ordinary people. This sentiment is often fueled by the decline of traditional industries and the challenges posed by globalization. Populists also promote the notion that all opinions are equal and my truth, which implicitly reject the need for study or expertise.
Top 10 Reasons Anti-Intellectualism is Trending
1. Education Levels among the Working Class: According to recent statistics, 30% of Americans do not complete high school. This statistic is indicative of a broader trend of declining educational attainment among certain segments of the population.
2. Politicians and Media Falsehoods: Politicians and the media have been found to lie to the public relentlessly. This has led to a loss of trust in institutions and authorities, contributing to a rise in anti-intellectualism.
3. Social Media Influence: Most people now get their news from platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. These platforms often prioritize sensationalism over accuracy, further eroding trust in institutions.
4. Cultural Shifts and Entertainment: The rise of intellectual and cultural boycotts has been fueled by social media. While intellectual pursuits are becoming less valued, entertainment and sports, particularly soccer and the NFL, are experiencing immense popularity. For instance, the highest-grossing film ever is Avengers: Endgame, while the best-selling book of 2018 was Becoming by Michelle Obama, a ghostwritten autobiography.
5. Manipulation by Political Entities: Conservative political entities, such as the Republican party in the United States, have learned to use anti-intellectual propaganda effectively. This manipulation helps them maintain their competitive edge by appealing to an underprivileged segment of the population that feels disenfranchised.
The Nobel Peace Prize Controversy
The controversy surrounding the Nobel Peace Prize is a striking example of how anti-intellectualism can thrive. The prize has been awarded to a diverse range of individuals, including Jimmy Carter, Al Gore, Barack Obama, Yasser Arafat, Henry Kissinger, Mikhail Gorbachev, Anwar Sadat, and many others. Critics argue that these selections reflect intellectual elitism and a lack of real-world impact, which is often exploited by anti-intellectual propagandists to criticize intellectuals for not doing real work.
Conclusion
The rise of anti-intellectualism is multifaceted and deeply rooted in cultural, political, and social factors. As long as there are discrepancies in educational levels, political manipulation through propaganda, and a lack of media accuracy, this trend is likely to continue. It is crucial to address these issues proactively to ensure that intellectual pursuits are valued and appreciated for their true importance in society.