Recently, a survey showed that more than half of self-identified Republicans think universities are harmful to America. This is a surprising change in how people view higher education. This skepticism isn’t just happening in the United States; it’s also seen in other countries like England, where people are increasingly doubtful of experts and their authority.
The Brexit vote in the UK highlighted a widespread dislike for experts who are seen as “telling you what to think.” This growing mistrust of knowledgeable individuals is becoming a global trend, crossing national and political lines. For those who see knowledge as valuable, this shift is particularly troubling.
The current conversation about elites has become confused. Traditionally, elites were thought of as the wealthy and powerful, like the billionaires in the Trump administration. Ironically, this government, filled with very wealthy people, calls college professors and journalists elites. This twist in reality raises questions about who really holds power and influence in society.
We are living in a time where established norms and truths are being questioned and overturned. The idea of objective reality is under attack, creating an environment where misinformation can spread easily. This reversal of truth is not only concerning but also presents a unique challenge for writers and artists.
Writers often find that difficult times can inspire deep creativity. Historical examples, like the Samizdat literature from the Soviet Union, show how adversity can lead to remarkable artistic expression. In contrast, literature from post-Soviet Russia lacks the same intensity, suggesting that the absence of a strong adversary can reduce creative output.
In these challenging times, the role of art becomes more important. Many writers are trying to figure out how to respond to the current political and social environment. The author of the discussed book reflects on how their work was influenced by the events leading up to the 2016 election, noting that while the storyline stayed the same, the context around it changed significantly.
The current climate of distrust towards universities and expertise, along with the reversal of truth, presents both challenges and opportunities for writers and artists. As society navigates these turbulent times, the role of art in expressing and responding to these issues becomes more crucial than ever. The ongoing conversation about the nature of truth and the value of knowledge will undoubtedly continue to shape the cultural landscape in the years to come.
Engage in a structured debate with your peers about the role of universities in society. Consider both the positive contributions and the criticisms mentioned in the article. This will help you understand different perspectives and develop your critical thinking skills.
Conduct a research project examining the global trend of mistrust in expertise. Choose a country or region and analyze the factors contributing to this skepticism. Present your findings in a class presentation, highlighting any similarities or differences with the trends discussed in the article.
Participate in a creative writing workshop where you explore how adversity can inspire artistic expression. Use historical examples like Samizdat literature as inspiration and create your own piece reflecting current societal challenges. Share your work with the class for feedback and discussion.
Organize a panel discussion with guest speakers from various fields to explore the concept of elites and power dynamics in society. Discuss how these perceptions have shifted over time and the implications for academia and journalism. This will provide a broader context to the issues raised in the article.
Attend a workshop focused on identifying and combating misinformation. Learn techniques for evaluating sources and verifying facts. This activity will equip you with the skills needed to navigate the “upside-down world of truth” described in the article.
Distrust – The feeling that someone or something cannot be relied upon or trusted. – In George Orwell’s “1984,” the pervasive distrust of the government is a central theme that illustrates the dangers of totalitarianism.
Universities – Institutions of higher education and research, which grant academic degrees in various disciplines. – The role of universities in shaping public discourse and fostering critical thinking is a recurring topic in social studies literature.
Expertise – Specialized knowledge or skill in a particular field, acquired through experience or education. – The professor’s expertise in Renaissance literature provided students with a deep understanding of the cultural and historical context of the period.
Public – Concerning the people as a whole, especially in relation to government and society. – The novel explores the tension between private desires and public responsibilities, a common theme in social studies.
Opinion – A belief or judgment that rests on grounds insufficient to produce complete certainty; a personal view. – The essay examines how public opinion can be shaped by media narratives and political rhetoric.
Literature – Written works, especially those considered of superior or lasting artistic merit. – The study of literature allows students to explore diverse perspectives and understand the human condition across different cultures and eras.
Art – The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture. – The intersection of art and literature is evident in the way visual imagery enhances narrative storytelling.
Adversity – Difficulties or misfortune, often seen as a test of character or resilience. – Many classic literary works depict characters overcoming adversity, highlighting themes of perseverance and strength.
Truth – The quality or state of being in accordance with fact or reality. – In literature, the quest for truth often drives the narrative, challenging characters to confront their beliefs and assumptions.
Knowledge – Facts, information, and skills acquired through experience or education; the theoretical or practical understanding of a subject. – The pursuit of knowledge is a central theme in many philosophical and literary texts, emphasizing its role in personal and societal development.
