Antiintellektualismus

Overview & Synopsis

Richard Hofstadter's thesis of Anti-intellectualism in American Life, first published in 1963, is now widely used as a compelling explanation for the resurgence of populism. This anthology subjects Hofstadter's historical master narrative to rigorous scrutiny. It uses examples of epochs, social groups and problems that are constitutive for Hofstadter's interpretation of U.S. history. From an interdisciplinary perspective, the authors examine the complex of anti-/intellectualism with regard to political practice, the construction of ethnic identity, the significance of gender and religion. The protagonists are gentlemen scholars, social climbers, U.S. presidents, immigrants, educated women, journalists, talk show hosts, religious communities and their leaders - and, of course, Hofstadter himself. Two questions come to the fore: What is the book’s enduring legacy beyond current political issues? And can the book be the key to understanding the present that some claim it is?