anti-intellectualism

American  

[an-tee-in-tl-ek-choo-uh-liz-uhm, an-tahy‑] / ˌæn tiˌɪn tlˈɛk tʃu əˌlɪz əm, ˌæn taɪ‑ /

noun

1. opposition to or hostility toward intellectuals and the modern academic, artistic, social, religious, and other theories associated with them.

   These “denial” movements are manifestations of a growing anti-intellectualism arising against science and scientists.

2. the belief or doctrine that intellect and reason are less important than actions and emotions in solving practical problems and understanding reality.

   Much of the country’s cultural history reflects a swinging back and forth between collective action and a rugged individualism based on anti-intellectualism.

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Etymology

Origin of anti-intellectualism

anti- ( def. ) + intellectualism

Example Sentences

These dangers are particularly obvious to academics and other intellectual elites: They include fascism, nativism, anti-intellectualism, persecution of unpopular minorities, exaltation of the mediocre, and romantic exaggeration of the wisdom and virtue of the masses.

From Salon • Aug. 19, 2025

“I think there’s a rising tide of anti-intellectualism in this country, and it’s really hard to see because there’s nothing wrong with being educated and learning things,” she said.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 21, 2023

A champion of drama as “a source of consciousness,” Gilman challenged the entrenched anti-intellectualism of the American theater.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 14, 2023

One possible explanation is Forrest’s reputation as an “untutored genius” in a military culture that fosters rampant anti-intellectualism.

From Slate • Mar. 5, 2022

Here also appears clearly the anti-intellectualism of Crescas and his disagreement with Maimonides and Gersonides.

From A History of Mediaeval Jewish Philosophy by Husik, Isaac