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The Decline of the Intellectual: A Call to Arms

Billy Foster

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In his thought-provoking book, The Decline of the Intellectual, Russell Jacoby argues that the intellectual class has lost its way. Jacoby traces the decline of the intellectual to the rise of the university and the professionalization of knowledge. He argues that these developments have led to a narrowing of the intellectual's horizons and a loss of their commitment to the public good.

Jacoby's book is a timely reminder of the importance of the intellectual class. In a world that is increasingly dominated by technology and bureaucracy, intellectuals are needed more than ever to provide critical thinking and independent voices.

The Decline of the Intellectual

5 out of 5

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The Rise of the University

One of the key factors that has contributed to the decline of the intellectual is the rise of the university. In the past, intellectuals were often independent thinkers who were not tied to any particular institution. They were free to pursue their own research and writing, and they were not beholden to any particular ideology or political party.

However, with the rise of the university, intellectuals have become increasingly professionalized. They are now expected to have PhDs, and they are often employed by universities or research institutions. This has led to a narrowing of their horizons, as they are now more focused on their own research and teaching than on the public good.

The Professionalization of Knowledge

Another factor that has contributed to the decline of the intellectual is the professionalization of knowledge. In the past, knowledge was often shared freely among intellectuals. However, with the rise of the university, knowledge has become increasingly compartmentalized and specialized. This has made it more difficult for intellectuals to communicate with each other and to engage with the public.

The professionalization of knowledge has also led to a decline in the quality of public discourse. In the past, intellectuals were often able to write for a general audience. However, today, intellectuals are more likely to write for other intellectuals, using specialized jargon that is inaccessible to the general public.

The Loss of Commitment to the Public Good

One of the most troubling aspects of the decline of the intellectual is the loss of commitment to the public good. In the past, intellectuals were often seen as the conscience of society. They were willing to speak out against injustice and to challenge the status quo. However, today, intellectuals are more likely to be concerned with their own careers than with the public good.

This loss of commitment to the public good is a serious problem. It means that society is less likely to benefit from the insights of its intellectuals. It also means that society is more likely to be dominated by the powerful and the wealthy.

A Call to Arms

Jacoby's book is a call to arms for intellectuals. He argues that intellectuals need to reclaim their independence and their commitment to the public good. He calls on intellectuals to speak out against injustice, to challenge the status quo, and to provide a voice for the voiceless.

The Decline of the Intellectual

5 out of 5