AntiIntellectualism

Antiintellectualism is a stance characterized by distrust or hostility toward intellectuals, scientists, and academic institutions, and toward the pursuit and valuing of knowledge for its own sake. It often manifests as a preference for practical knowledge or common sense over expert opinion and can be found across political, cultural, and religious lines.

The term gained prominence in the United States through cultural analysis, notably in Richard Hofstadter's 1963 work Anti-Intellectualism in American Life, which argued that anti-intellectual attitudes have shaped public culture and policy by devaluing expertise and science. Causes include populist critiques of elites, perceived detachment of academia from everyday life, media sensationalism, and distrust of institutions after scandals or policy failures. Antiintellectualism can be reinforced by cognitive biases and emotional appeals, such as appeals to tradition, nationalism, or personal freedom.

Expressions range from denigrating scientists, educators, and journalists to promoting conspiracy theories and opposition to science-based policies. It is not synonymous with disagreement over specific policies or legitimate critiques; rather, it denotes a broader cultural stance that views intellectual authority with suspicion or contempt.

Consequences include reduced support for science and education, challenges to evidence-based policymaking, and slowed progress in public health, environmental policy, and technology adoption. The phenomenon is global and intersects with debates over secularism, religion, and media trust.

See also: anti-elitism, populism, science communication, Hofstadter.