The concept of expertise and who qualifies as an expert has become increasingly blurred in today’s information-rich world. With the rise of digital platforms, the distinction between professional knowledge and layperson opinions is fading, leading to significant societal changes.
According to Tom Nichols, a staff writer at The Atlantic, the proliferation of online resources has contributed to the “death of expertise.” Nichols, author of “The Death of Expertise: The Campaign Against Established Knowledge and Why it Matters,” discussed these themes in a conversation with The Show, highlighting how individuals now claim expertise through self-directed research, often lacking formal training or experience.
The Erosion of Professional Boundaries
MARK BRODIE: Tom, how do you perceive the increase in people claiming expertise without formal training or experience?
TOM NICHOLS: In the past, people might have questioned experts but still valued their judgments. Now, there’s a growing belief that individuals can be their own experts. This shift is evident across fields, from medicine to home improvement, where laypeople challenge professionals without acknowledging the complexity of these domains.
Narcissism and Resentment Fueling the Shift
Nichols attributes part of this trend to increasing narcissism and resentment. He argues that as people grow accustomed to high standards of living, they become frustrated when confronted with complex issues they cannot easily understand or control.
NICHOLS: People often feel overwhelmed and seek more information to regain control. This dynamic, coupled with a rising sense of entitlement, contributes to the dismissal of expert opinions.
The Impact of Information Accessibility
With the internet providing instant access to information, the traditional reliance on experts is diminishing. Nichols notes that where once one might spend hours in a library, now a smartphone can provide seemingly authoritative answers.
NICHOLS: The convenience of online information reinforces the belief that anyone can be an expert, often without understanding the nuances that professionals bring to their fields.
The Balance Between Inquiry and Expertise
BRODIE: How should society balance skepticism with acceptance of expert advice?
NICHOLS: While questioning is important, it should not overshadow the value of expertise. Engaging in informed dialogue with professionals can enhance understanding, but assuming personal conclusions are superior undermines the respect for foundational knowledge.
Consequences for Society
Nichols warns of the negative social dynamics arising from this decline in trust. When experts are perceived as untrustworthy or part of conspiracies, they may become defensive and less transparent.
NICHOLS: This mistrust leads to a cycle where experts are hesitant to admit errors for fear of public backlash, further eroding their credibility.
Uncertain Future
Nichols is uncertain about the future of expertise. Despite believing that a major crisis might restore respect for professional knowledge, he acknowledges that recent global challenges have not shifted public perception.
NICHOLS: I’m not sure what it will take for a change, but it doesn’t seem likely to happen soon.
KJZZ’s The Show transcripts are created on deadline. This text is edited for length and clarity, and may not be in its final form. The authoritative record of KJZZ’s programming is the audio record.
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