Understanding Mistrust and the Role of Art

The transcript discusses the growing distrust in universities and expertise, particularly among Republicans in America and during the Brexit vote in England. It explores the distorted concept of elites, contrasting billionaires with academics. The role of literature and art in times of adversity is highlighted, noting how challenging times can inspire great works. The speaker reflects on writing a novel in the context of political changes, particularly around the time of the U.S. election, and the challenges of capturing the evolving reality.

What percentage of Republicans reportedly view universities as harmful to America?

• 60%

• 50%

• 40%

• 30%

In the context of the Brexit vote, what was a common sentiment regarding experts?

• Experts are irrelevant in modern society.

• Experts are disliked for telling people what to think.

• Experts should be trusted without question.

• Experts are essential for decision-making.

How does the speaker define 'elite' in contrast to the common perception?

• As military leaders.

• As celebrities and influencers.

• As billionaires in government.

• As academics and journalists.

What is the speaker's view on the current state of reality and truth?

• They are more stable than ever.

• They are universally accepted.

• They are irrelevant in today's world.

• They are being inverted and questioned.

What is the relationship between adversity and literature according to the speaker?

• Adversity has no impact on literature.

• Adversity fuels great literary works.

• Adversity hinders literary creativity.

• Adversity makes literature less relevant.

How did the loss of the Soviet Union affect spy fiction, according to the speaker?

• It made spy fiction more popular.

• It had no impact on spy fiction.

• It damaged spy fiction due to the lack of a clear enemy.

• It improved the quality of spy fiction.

What role does the speaker believe art plays in adversarial times?

• Art becomes irrelevant.

• Art has a big role to speak up.

• Art should avoid political topics.

• Art should remain neutral.

What was the author's approach to writing the novel in a changing political landscape?

• Adapting the context to reflect political changes.

• Ignoring real-world events.

• Focusing solely on character development.

• Avoiding any mention of politics.

How did the author handle the completion of the book with respect to the election?

• The book was delayed indefinitely.

• The context was adjusted up until printing.

• The book was rewritten entirely.

• The book was completed without any changes.

What does the author imply about the relationship between the storyline and the political context?

• The storyline was heavily altered by the election.

• The storyline remained unchanged, but the context was adapted.

• The storyline was irrelevant to the context.

• The storyline was completely fictional with no real-world ties.