It is important to consider intellectuals in an analytic lens that is not their own. Studying intellectuals in the way they study other subjects will help to eliminate potential bias. This is beneficial as what they consider to be “true” and the reality of what is true can be discovered. If intellectuals were only considered in a lens that is their own, we would only learn what they believe and want us to know. Approaching intellectuals with an outside perspective can allow for a critical examination. In this lens, asking questions and disagreeing with opinions creates discussion. Furthermore, taking this position allows us to gain a deeper understanding of intellectuals and the community they build. Posing questions also heightens curiosity. Additionally a benefit of studying intellectuals in the same way they study other subjects is that there are now multiple facets in which to study. If viewing them within the same lens, only that intellectual’s way of thinking and devoting to finding the truth would be studied. It will be difficult to determine what is “truth” vs what is opinion if we did not consider intellectuals in a lens that was not their own. Studying intellectuals in a traditional way of studying allows us to learn about the truth in a way that is diverse.
I am fascinated by the content of this course because the material is unlike any other subject that I have studied. I do not tend to critically analyze “Truth” in people. The majority of my classes are STEM based, therefore I am analyzing data sets based on validity from prior knowledge. I am excited to learn more about how to come about finding the “Truth” in an approach that is similar to the way I learn about other subjects, but with material that is out of my comfort zone. This course will challenge the way I think, which is important to grow and learn. Thinking critically about intellectuals will also make me think critically about myself. I will reflect upon what I hold to be “true” and what are just strongly held beliefs based on what I value. I think too often, we do not stop to challenge the truth because now there is so much information readily available, that one can find a source to support their truth. Therefore, I am excited to learn about how to devote your life to finding the “sacred object” of “Truth” and how it will shape my learning about the world around me.