The Erosion of Intellectualism & The Rise of Collective Stupidity in America

Introduction

This essay seeks to delve into the intricate web of factors that have precipitated the erosion of intellectualism in America and, concomitantly, the rise of what can be termed as “collective stupidity.” By collective stupidity, we refer to a societal inclination towards simplistic thinking, the dismissal of expertise, and a penchant for embracing facile solutions to complex problems. We explore the multifaceted influences contributing to this phenomenon, ranging from political anti-intellectualism to challenges within the education system and the pervasive impact of modern media.

In an era fueled by information abundance, it’s perplexing to witness a palpable decline in intellectualism in America. Alarmingly, this decline isn’t just a matter of benign ignorance; it manifests as a growing pride in a lack of knowledge, with some factions even celebrating their dismissal of expertise and facts. The reverence for ignorance is not merely a side effect of our times but rather a culmination of consistent societal nudges.