Question

What is the meaning of ‘intellectual rubbish’?

Answer 1

The writer uses the phrase "intellectual rubbish" to describe all false beliefs, baseless opinions, superstitions of various kinds. He highlights the obscurantist attitude of people which stops mankind from walking on the path of knowledge and wisdom. He feels this 'intellectual rubbish' is the result of an illogical and unreasonable view of things in general.

People follow certain beliefs, ideas, customs, and rituals without inquiring about their validity. Many of these beliefs and customs lead to evil and suffering in the world. The writer observes that human rationality is nowhere to be found. The human mind is lacking in common sense and driven by dogmatism, pride, and fear. He finds cruelty, superstition, oppression, and cruelty to be on the rise. He gives us plenty of solid examples to prove his thesis in this lesson.