Challenge Authority; Embrace Dissent

Intellectual history is marked by the tension between dissenters and established authorities. Figures like Hawthorne and Zola faced significant backlash for their criticisms during the Dreyfus trial and the Vietnam War, which illustrates a recurring theme where intellectuals who question motives and methods are labeled as outsiders. This dynamic reflects the struggles of those who advocate for change against dominant narratives, emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in society and honoring the voices of those who challenge norms.