pseudoPod

What the hell is a pseudo-intellectual, anyway? It seems like a bullshit term used by anti-intellectuals to make intellectualism seem like a fraud. What makes me a 'pseudo-intellectual'? Is it that I don't have multiple advanced degrees, and yet don't choose to spend the majority of my weekends chugging patriotic domestic beers and watching football? I'm honestly curious. If that's the job description, sign me up. I'm qualified. I don't have a problem with beer or football. I even enjoy the former, albeit not frequently. But in general, that's just not my thing.

Honestly, here's the thing. I'm not entirely sure I do qualify as a true intellectual. Not that I believe that there's an actual precise measure of it. ("I'm here for the position of 'intellectual.'" "How many masters degrees do you have?" "Two." "What in?" "Architecture and Theories of Education." "Ooh, so close. Next!") It's just that if you ask me straight out, am I an intellectual, I'm not sure I'd say yes.

There's a world of difference between being an intellectual and advancing intellectualism. I don't have to be an intellectual to believe that there is inherent benefit in being an intellectual, and in consulting with intellectuals on matters that pertain to their areas of expertise, and not getting all panties-wadded offended at the notion that maybe, just maybe, somebody who has an advanced degree in a subject might be more knowledgeable than me in regards to that subject. I don't have to be an intellectual to want an intellectual running this country, and not a cartoon cowboy who can't pronounce the word 'nuclear.' I don't have to be an intellectual to think anti-intellectualism is at the heart of most of the problems currently facing our culture.

It doesn't really matter to me whether I'm an intellectual, or a pseudo-intellectual, or a total moron. I am an intellectualist. One needn't be gay to fight for gay rights. One needn't be a woman to detest misogyny. One needn't be an intellectual to advocate intellectualism.