The Ideas Industry

"The Ideas Industry" delves into the shift from the traditional public intellectual to the new thought leader, focusing on the role of political polarization and eroding trust in authority. Instead of debating in highbrow magazines, thought leaders gain their fame through TED talks and institutions closed to the public. The book examines the three key factors that have reshaped the world of ideas: waning trust in expertise, increasing political polarization and plutocracy. Although there are downsides, the book argues that the contemporary ideas industry is great at reaching large audiences hungry for new thinking. This insightful book will reshape our understanding of public intellectual life in America and the West.