The Disturbing Hatred for Intelligence

John Erskine’s profound assertion, “We have a moral obligation to be intelligent,” is a rallying cry to a world that increasingly sidesteps intellectual rigor in favor of more digestible narratives. The diminishing value placed on intelligence in society is not just a product of recent culture but has deep roots in history and literature, where the intelligent have often been cast as villains, while serendipity has favored the so-called “good” characters.

David Hopkins’ critique of Friends, the 1990s sitcom sensation, offers a startling reflection of how intelligence is not just neglected but ridiculed in mainstream entertainment. Ross Geller, the intellectual, is repeatedly mocked for his intelligence and enthusiasm for knowledge. His intellectual curiosity, instead of being admired, is used as comic fodder. It’s a subtle but powerful commentary on how society has become uncomfortable with those who dare to think deeply and express their passion for learning.

But the issue goes beyond sitcoms. Historically, intelligence has been associated with manipulation and scheming, especially in literature. In Shakespeare’s works, for example, the intelligent characters like Iago or Edmund were often portrayed as cunning villains. Intelligence, in these narratives, became synonymous with danger, while those with less intellectual prowess were often beneficiaries of good fortune. This literary bias persists today, where intellectualism is frequently misconstrued as arrogance or elitism, further alienating thinkers and problem-solvers from mainstream acceptance.

The consequences of this vilification are significant. A society that marginalizes intelligence risks stunting its own progress. Throughout history, it has been intellectual curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge that have propelled humanity forward. Thinkers and inventors of the past?—?those who dared to challenge accepted norms and explore the unknown?—?were the architects of social, technological, and philosophical advancements. Their legacy should serve as a reminder that intelligence is not just a personal virtue but a societal one. It fuels innovation, progress, and a better future for all.

Today, however, we witness a growing indifference, if not outright disdain, toward intellectual pursuits. The rise of superficial narratives, driven by entertainment and social media, threatens to replace meaningful discourse with soundbites and sensationalism. Leaders are increasingly selected for their charisma over their competence, and the value of in-depth thinking is often overshadowed by the appeal of quick fixes and oversimplified solutions.

But all is not lost. The resistance to this anti-intellectual tide exists in pockets across society. Educators, thinkers, and innovators continue to uphold the values of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. It is from these corners that a movement can grow?—?a movement that not only protects the “nerds” but reclaims intelligence as a virtue to be admired, not feared.

Businesses, educational institutions, and cultural leaders have a responsibility to foster an environment where intelligence is celebrated. Instead of sidelining intellectuals, we must elevate them. The challenges facing society today demand deep thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Rather than viewing intelligence as something to be wary of, we must see it as the key to progress and success.

This call to action goes beyond mere admiration of intelligence?—?it demands the active cultivation of it. We must encourage people to read more, learn more, and engage in meaningful debate. We must shift away from the culture of ridicule and embrace a culture of inquiry, where intellectual achievements are not just recognized but celebrated. Only then can we fully harness the power of thinking to build a brighter future.

Intelligence, far from being a threat, is our greatest asset. Now more than ever, we must nurture it, protect it, and give it the space it deserves to flourish.