Thank you so much for this, Binoy.

As you conclude, crap has been concocted throughout history, dressed up in the latest impenetrable jargon, and always derogating any need for evidence, favouring stance and 'narrative' over substance - in fact, condemning any contrary findings.

Any research which purports to be progressive must rely on evidence, no matter what is inconveniently demonstrates, and where possible, the opportunity for replication ? Obfuscation is surely the enemy of not just clear thinking and writing, but also of any such progressive research.

Thanks again.

Best wishes,

Joe

Good work, Binoy. I would add one discipline , philosophy, which indulges itself in obscurantist writing. Some are already mentioned in your article. Added to the obscure writing is an overwhelming belief in the value of argument as a way to reach the truth. That is why, after 2000 years, we still have not been able to define the difference between right and wrong.

The dumbing-down is working well !

Pure science and intellectual introspection, or science for science's sake is a world in a bubble that routinely ignores social fundamentals. And all too often looks down an ultra-privileged toffee nose and the common man and the taxpayer that funds all the research etc.

Little wonder then, there is increasing resentment and hostility toward science, given the huge disconnect and indifference toward lesser intellects? And not borne out by the fact that most new discoveries were found by inquisitorial non-academics.

That said, grievances are more abundant now than most can remember. With the impoverished increasing at an exponentially expanding rate along with perceived injustice and intolerance. An ever-widening gap between the haves and the have nots. And a plethora of generational postcode poverty traps!

Not assisted by greed is good extreme capitalism or the dopey self-serving tin-eared conservatives who have this and rich and powerful idealogues as their personal idols! (Mannon)

The sad reality is, we can do so much better without wrecking the joint or be "governed" by diabolically dumb power junkies who wouldn't know the time of day if it weren't for clocks!?

Yea verily yea!
Alan B.