On the role of an intellectual
On the role of an intellectual

Summary/Abstract: The article tries to answer the question of the role of an intellectual in the current system. It takes as its basis the structural difference between intellectuals and non-intellectuals that puts the former into the position of domination. This difference can be overcome if everyone is considered an intellectual to a certain degree as Gramsci claims. An intellectual takes the role of an interpreter in his or her own society and rejects the vanguard position as well as the position of a professional who ordains what is right and then takes care of it. There is a role for an intellectual even if s/he is in danger of legitimizing the capitalist system by falling into the trap of the postmodern cultural logic of late capitalism. This is the activist task embraced by Foucault who seeks new politics of truth. But one should not forget that intellectual strives for less power thus enabling the subaltern Other to be heard.

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