The Daily Stoic Author Tom Nichols on the Assault on Modern Thinking | The Story We Tell Is Powerful
Sep 8, 2021
Tom Nichols, Professor of National Security Affairs and author of 'The Death of Expertise,' dives into the erosion of public trust in experts. He discusses the clash between detailed knowledge and societal trends, urging listeners to take civic responsibilities seriously. Emphasizing Stoic philosophy, Nichols highlights the need for acceptance of uncomfortable truths while critiquing modern apathy toward civic duty. The conversation also touches on the dangers of misinformation and the moral implications of today's political landscape, asking for greater public engagement.
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Impact of Expert Failures
- Public's harsh response to expert failures makes experts hesitant to admit mistakes.
- This creates a vicious cycle where owning up to errors is seen as invalidating all prior knowledge.
Selective Expertise
- People don't reject expertise but cherry-pick it to fit their desires.
- They apply loose standards to favored experts while dismissing rigorous ones that challenge their beliefs.
Bridging the Gap
- Expert communities need more public intellectuals to bridge the gap between detailed knowledge and public discourse.
- Experts should engage publicly, taking their lumps, despite potential unpleasantness.
