Blog prompt 2

Blog Prompt #2: Who are the leading public intellectuals of our day?

In class this week, we will be discussing the concept of the public intellectual. As part of that discussion, we'll be talking about Posner's notorious list of the most influential public intellectuals in the American media. For this week's blog, I'd like you all to write a short post identifying the few thinkers and writers you consider to be the most significant or note-worthy public intellectuals of the present day and why. In class, we will spend some time discussing people's suggestions. Later this week, I'll post my own list. But for now, I am curious about who you identify as our leading intellectuals....

In order to be classified a public intellectual I feel one must first and foremost be an agent of change. A public intellectual serves as a member of the community who is influential and uses their intellect to help others. One person I feel is a strong representation of this is former President Barrack Obama. When he was originally elected his campaign focused on the thing he was trying to accomplish; change. Despite opposition President Obama always carried himself with grace and dignity, and, in my opinion, delivered on that promise of change. Obviously, President Obama was a very public figure, but he always spoke with conviction and eloquence while representing our country. For the most part his ideas were logical, he could clearly articulate an argument and his authenticity was unprecedented in our political offices. Given the impact the former president has had on our society, it is clear his ideas will be an integral part of American history. His ability to connect with others and insight change in our world serves as a reminder that the public intellectual can come in every size, shape, or color.