Chapter 1: The Warnings of Isaac Asimov

In 1980, Isaac Asimov penned a cautionary piece in Newsweek titled "The Cult of Ignorance," highlighting a persistent thread of anti-intellectualism in American culture. He argued that the misconception of democracy fosters a dangerous belief that "my ignorance is just as good as your knowledge." Asimov's concerns resonate even more profoundly in today's post-Trump era, as the anti-intellectual tide has only strengthened since his time.

Asimov emphasized how the educated were being vilified rather than honored. Intelligence became synonymous with elitism, and having more knowledge than your neighbor was perceived as arrogance. He illustrated this troubling trend by referencing the applause received by Alabama politician George Wallace when he disparaged an opponent as a "pointy-headed professor." As a biochemistry professor himself, Asimov must have found it disheartening to witness the celebration of ignorance.

Moreover, Asimov critiqued politicians who purposely simplified their language to avoid alienating voters. He noted that Adlai Stevenson lost to Dwight Eisenhower in 1956 partly because he allowed his intelligence to show in his speeches, while Eisenhower created a unique, simplified version of English that resonated with the masses. Asimov’s insights demonstrate a troubling shift in society's values, where ignorance is celebrated.

The first video, "Isaac Asimov on the Cult of Ignorance," delves into Asimov's prescient observations about the dangers of anti-intellectualism and how they apply to our current societal landscape.

Section 1.1: The Rise of Anti-Intellectualism

If Asimov were to witness today's environment, he would likely be appalled. Take, for example, Marjorie Taylor Greene, who assumed her Congressional seat on January 3rd, 2021. Despite her numerous conspiracy theories—from QAnon beliefs to outrageous claims about California wildfires—she garnered a standing ovation from some Republican colleagues during a hearing regarding her fitness for office. This kind of support begs the question: what values are being applauded?

The proliferation of conspiracy theories raises further concerns. The anti-vaccine movement, flat-Earth beliefs, and astrology enthusiasts persist, revealing a troubling trend where ignorance is not just tolerated but embraced. Why did Sarah Palin receive praise for mocking President Obama as merely a "constitutional law professor"? Why did Trump attract 74 million votes despite a litany of falsehoods?

Subsection 1.1.1: A Society in Crisis

The urgency of Asimov's warnings is underscored by the need for armed security for Dr. Anthony Fauci during the COVID-19 pandemic. This situation highlights the peril faced by those advocating for science and reason in a climate increasingly hostile to these ideals.

Chapter 2: The Cycle of Knowledge and Ignorance

After the events of January 6, 2021, it became painfully clear how close we came to the unreasonable taking control. The insurrectionists, fueled by pseudoscience and conspiracy theories, exemplified the dangers of a society shackled by ignorance. Asimov's insights have never been more relevant.

The second video, "If God is Dead, Everything is Permitted?" featuring Isaac Asimov, explores philosophical dilemmas and their implications in a world rife with misinformation and distrust.

So how can the reasonable counteract the rise of ignorance? Asimov's "Foundation" series offers a framework. He envisioned Hari Seldon, who developed psychohistory to predict societal behavior. Seldon foresaw the collapse of the galactic empire and established institutions to safeguard knowledge for future generations.

Asimov’s narrative serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing that civilizations are prone to collapse due to war, corruption, and ignorance. He believed that the reasonable, though limited in power, could mitigate the damage and preserve knowledge during dark times.

In conclusion, it is imperative to protect both knowledge and those who create it. We must resist the forces that seek to demonize education and undermine intellectual pursuits. If we fail, we risk repeating the mistakes of history, losing the very essence of our shared human heritage: knowledge.

The threat posed by ignorance is real and persistent. Asimov's wisdom reminds us of the fragility of civilization and the need to stand against the tide of anti-intellectualism. It is our duty to safeguard knowledge for the benefit of future generations.

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Originally published at http://thehappyneuron.com on February 6, 2021.