Thomas Sowell is a well-known name in the field of economics and social theory. But what many people might not know is that he is a Marine. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, Sowell went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and his PhD in economics from the University of Chicago. His experiences in the military undoubtedly had a significant impact on his worldview.
In his book “The Vision of the Anointed,” Sowell shares his insights into the intellectual elite and their worldview. He argues that there is a certain segment of society – the anointed – who believe that they have a special insight into how the world should work. These individuals are typically found in academia, politics, and the media. They believe that they know what is best for society, and they work to impose their views on others.
Sowell’s book explores the impact of this worldview on society as a whole. He argues that the anointed’s beliefs can be dangerous because they are often divorced from reality. They may hold onto their views even when they are proven wrong by empirical evidence. This can have significant consequences for society, as policies based on these beliefs can have unintended consequences.
One of the key insights from “The Vision of the Anointed” is the idea that the anointed have a certain arrogance about their worldview. They believe that they know what is best for everyone else and are not open to considering alternative viewpoints. Sowell argues that this arrogance can be dangerous because it can lead to policies that are not grounded in reality.
As a Marine, Sowell likely learned the importance of being grounded in reality. In the military, decisions can have life and death consequences. There is no room for arrogance or intellectual posturing. The focus is on accomplishing the mission and achieving the objectives.
Overall, “The Vision of the Anointed” is a thought-provoking book that offers insights into the intellectual elite and their impact on society. Thomas Sowell’s experiences as a Marine likely played a significant role in shaping his views on the world and the importance of being grounded in reality. If you’re interested in learning more about the anointed and their worldview, this book is definitely worth a read.
In conclusion, Thomas Sowell’s “The Vision of the Anointed” offers a unique perspective on the intellectual elite and their worldview. As a Marine turned economist and social theorist, Sowell’s experiences likely played a significant role in shaping his views on the importance of being grounded in reality. If you’re interested in learning more about the anointed and their impact on society, this book is a must-read.
