I'm always taken aback by the word 'intellectual'--indeed it unsettles and scares me. No doubt, this is a favourite word with academicians, thinkers, the intelligent and smart as well as those who regard themselves as being qualified to be among such. Then they are those who, despite their limited e∂ucation, have made millions in business (whether legitimately or by devious or illegal means) who pride themselves as 'business wizards', a categorisation that makes them even more distinguished than the 'intellectuals'.
The word sets them apart from the common run of mankind--they want to think of themselves as being superior to all others. It's their obsession, trade-mark and their fetish---they are what their ego makes them. So sad, they know not that they live in delusion, for the true intellectual doesn't boast of being one, less commending himself in indulgence that he is such.
I have seen this often in real life and thus am not speaking in speculation.
I am no psychologist but I consider these people not only as puerile, immature, insecure and lacking emotional intelligence but also as socially unpleasant and odious. I remember an Oxford-trained scientist over dinner who talked endlessly about his achievements in chemistry, buttressed further by his proud and talkative wife--a most boring meal!
Intelligence exists everywhere--look at the skilful works of the carpenter, gardener, teacher, nurse, mechanic, electrician, plumber,
iron-monger, singer, dancer, musician, the entertainer and clown, the baker and chef...the list is an endless one. To crown all this, think of the wisdom of your own mother!
Let me be then, just a common man. I know this defines me perfectly
and makes me immensely happy!