Where Have All the Intellectuals Gone? 2nd Edition: Confronting 21st Century Philistinism

A few authors have had an effect on the public mind that far outweighs their formal recognition. One of these is Karl Marx; another relevant here is Thorstein Veblen. Veblen's Theory of the Leisure Class is an almost perfect explanation for the very valid observations that Furedi describes about the demise of intellectuality. Whether or not you approve of Veblen's conclusions, you can see his theory at work in Furedi's description of the condescension the privileged currently show for the "common people." While Furedi may be accurate in his characterization of the privileged as simply trying to maintain their status, Veblen shows that this is their only recourse. The privileged did not make this world, nor can the current holders of that status be held completely responsible for existing conditions. Veblen shows how it all came about, whether we like it or not. To a certain extent, Furedi's critics are correct in accusing him of wannabe elitism. Both of these authors offer us an alternative: either we can keep it like it is, or we can change it. Unfortunately, changing it may be as long a project as that of getting us where we are.

For me, this was a challenging read. What most concerns the author is too easily dismissed or missed in our thinking about art, literature, discourse, politics and even technology. It was difficult for me to keep from agreeing with the points of view of those the author uses to illustrate his belief that the Philistines have taken over the work of the mind and its value for its own sake. You, too, may be surprised by the pathways you find yourself following as the author explores where the intellectuals have gone. I enjoyed it, and recommend it.

Frank Furedi's book is a wake up call to intellectuals, and a discussion of the demise of intellectual activities in modern society. His observation that cultural relativism and fear of elitism has reaped a harvest of "I'm OK, you're OK" ratings systems that are ultimately meaningless. Rather than coddle the masses, treating them as brainless chattle, we should reinvigorate the reach for greatness so that society as a whole can benefit. If we attempt to protect everyone from feelings of inadequacy, we end up rearing generations of lackluster performers.

I ordered two copies of this book the minute I heard of it: one for myself, and one for the public library where I select the non-fiction titles. If I could afford it, I'd sent one to every intelligent person I know, for not only is Furedi dead-on in his assessments of the impoverished state of intellectual life today, his plea resonates with those who should be contributing to public knowledge and debate, but don't. After ripping through this short but poignant volume, I felt giddy with inspiration, as did every single other person I suggested this book to. If the author sought to fill those empty cafe chairs, he has succeeded brilliantly.