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Distrust and scorn towards intellectuals has always been a powerful force in the United States, according to a Pulitzer Prize-winning book written 62 years ago by Richard Hofstadter, Anti-Intellectualism in American Life.
Many other academics have looked at this question over the years, contrasting the widespread American attitude to that of the Europeans.
Now a fascinating new book from Oxford University Press takes up the theme. Anti Scientific Americans is written by Boston University Professor Matthew Motta. Wayne Brittenden discusses with him the social and political factors that have brought this about.
All you need to know about the making and meaning of national songs! Erik Levi, Professor of Music at Royal Holloway, University of London, talks about the musical devices that stir emotions in patriotic songs and takes a critical look at some interesting examples.
Robert Dunham, Executive Director of the Death Penalty Information Center in Washington DC, discusses with Wayne Brittenden the ethical and legal situation of capital punishment globally — but particularly in the US, which is the only western democracy that — at least in 29 states — can still execute its citizens.
Although it’s extremely rare for Australian voters to deny a first-term government a second go, history may not be on the side of Labor prime minister Anthony Albanese …
Donald Trump has changed everything everywhere — especially in Canada. In January the polls for both the ruling Liberal party and prime minister Justin Trudeau …
Our growing list of relatively timeless interviews
Philosopher and Professor of Philosophy at Yale University Jason Stanley discusses his book on fascism — a word currently widely used but often misunderstood. Stanley, also the author of How Propaganda Works, offers some unique insights into the fascist mindset and the circumstances that help create it.
It took Joe Biden’s departure to spotlight Trump’s own shortcomings in communication. The unfinished sentences, repetitions and overblown rhetoric are nothing new, but …
Since you’ve been in the news, it seems timely to drop you a line. After all, it’s not everyone that gets a US holiday in their honour. You and Martin Luther King. The two of you could hardly be more different …
