The Vision of the Anointed: Self-Congratulation as a Basis for Social Policy : Book Review

In his book "The Vision of the Anointed," Thomas Sowell boldly challenges the widely held beliefs of the intellectual elite and offers a compelling critique of their ideas. He argues that the so-called "anointed" individuals, who consider themselves superior in their understanding of the world's problems and advocate for government intervention, often do more harm than good. Sowell sets out to dismantle their assumptions and reveal the flaws in their reasoning.

Sowell delves deep into the mindset of the anointed, shedding light on their unwavering faith in their own moral superiority. He highlights their tendency to dismiss opposing viewpoints and evidence that contradicts their narratives. This firm belief in their own superior understanding leads them to implement policies that may sound appealing in theory but ultimately have detrimental consequences in practice.

The author contends that the anointed often prioritize their own intentions over the actual outcomes of their actions. Their primary focus lies in feeling good about themselves and appearing virtuous, rather than considering the real impact of their policies on the people they claim to be helping. By disregarding unintended consequences, they inadvertently create a cycle of dependency and perpetuate the very problems they set out to solve.

A central theme in the book is the anointed's disregard for the constraints of reality and their unwavering confidence in their ability to reshape society according to their own vision. Sowell provides numerous examples where their policies have failed or led to unintended negative repercussions, particularly in areas such as education, crime, and welfare. He challenges the notion that intellectuals possess the necessary knowledge and insight to engineer society from the top down.

Overall, "The Vision of the Anointed" offers a thought-provoking and insightful critique of the intellectual elite and their approach to solving society's problems. Thomas Sowell deftly challenges prevailing beliefs and exposes the flaws in the anointed's thinking, emphasizing the importance of considering unintended consequences and recognizing the limitations of centralized authority. This book is a valuable read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of intellectual arrogance on public policy.

What are readers saying?

Thomas Sowell's book "The Vision of the Anointed" delves into the ideas and theories of a group known as the anointed, who see themselves as intellectuals. Sowell challenges their assumptions and sheds light on the flawed thinking behind their policies and actions. The reviews for this thought-provoking work reflect the impact it has had on readers, with a mix of praise and criticism.

Many readers appreciate Sowell's clear and incisive analysis. They find his ability to present complex ideas in a straightforward manner accessible and commendable. The book is seen as a necessary counter to the prevailing wisdom of the anointed, offering a refreshing perspective that challenges conventional thinking.

Some reviewers highlight the book's relevance in today's political climate. They emphasize Sowell's critical examination of the anointed's policies and beliefs and how these ideas have influenced public discourse and policy-making. The insights presented in the book are considered crucial for understanding current cultural and political issues.

However, not all reviewers are convinced by Sowell's arguments. Some criticize the book for being overly ideological and dismissive of alternative viewpoints. They argue that Sowell fails to consider the complexities and nuances of the addressed issues, leading to a lack of comprehensive analysis and an unbalanced view.

Despite the criticisms, many readers find "The Vision of the Anointed" to be a thought-provoking and illuminating read. They value Sowell's rigorous research and his ability to challenge widely accepted ideas. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of the intellectual elite in shaping society.

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