What’s Next, Doc?

Abstract

Abstract Chapter 9 concludes by summarizing the lessons learned from the analyses presented throughout this book and suggesting directions for future research. Anti-intellectualism is the product of both socio-political and epistemic forces. It both shapes and is shaped by views about the role that experts play in the policymaking process. Perhaps most importantly, anti-intellectualism inspires opposition both among political elites and the American public more generally to experts’ policy influence in several important areas. Most importantly, the chapter considers how anti-intellectual attitude acceptance can be reduced. Drawing on insights from Chapter 6, the book’s final chapter points to a potentially unified approach to combating anti-intellectualism by suggesting that efforts to stimulate Americans’ interest in and curiosity about science, technology, and related matters could help mitigate the extent to which Americans express negativity toward experts.