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That intellectuals, including academics, would become a…

“That intellectuals, including academics, would become a "new class" of technocrats, claiming the name of science while cooperating with the powerful, was predicted by [Mikhail] Bakunin in the early days of the formation of the modern intelligentsia in the 19th century.” quote by Noam Chomsky
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“That intellectuals, including academics, would become a "new class" of technocrats, claiming the name of science while cooperating with the powerful, was predicted by [Mikhail] Bakunin in the early days of the formation of the modern intelligentsia in the 19th century.”

Noam Chomsky

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Intellectuals may form a privileged technocratic class that allies with power while claiming scientific neutrality.

In simple terms: Scientists can become a privileged class aligned with power.

Key Takeaway

Beware of elite technocrats masquerading as neutral experts.

Themes

elitism power science class intellectuals

Mood

skeptical critical cautious

Type

analytical political historical

When to use this quote

  • policy advising
  • academic research
  • government consulting
  • media commentary

Key Concepts

technocracy cooptation class formation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we distinguish genuine expertise from coopted technocracy?
  • What safeguards can prevent elite capture of science?
A Different Perspective

Such groups may still retain genuine expertise despite cooptation.

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