Knowledge Resistance

Mikael Klintman is Professor of Sociology at the University of Lund, Sweden, Visiting Scholar at the Centre for Philosophy of Natural and Social Science, London School of Economics and Political Science and a former Wallenberg Fellow of Environment and Sustainability at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA.

'At all levels of society, our world is becoming increasingly dominated by an inability, even refusal, to engage with others' ideas. It does not bode well either for democracy or for science. Mikael Klintman's book offers just the kind of in-depth exploration of the issues that surround this disturbing phenomenon that is desperately needed.'R. I. M. Dunbar, Emeritus Professor of Evolutionary Psychology, University of Oxford'Few things could be more important right now than trying to shed new light on "knowledge resistance" in the internet age. It may not be a new phenomenon, but with the way it impacts on our lives today, it is an existential threat to humanity. Mikael Klintman’s book provides valuable perspectives on knowledge resistance and suggests how we, as individuals and societies, can find ways to manage and prevent its harmful forms.'Björn Ulvaeus, musician and activist'A must-read, especially in these turbulent times. An insightful approach to a complex issue.' Nazli Choucri, Professor of Political Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

• 1 Introduction2 What knowledge resistance isn’t and a hint at what it is3 If you’re with us, don't believe them4 Why invalid claims can be valuable5 Knowledge belief first, confirming evidence second6 What’s in it for me to know that?7 When knowledge is responsibility and ignorance freedom8 What if the earth is round? Concerns about cultural consequences9 How to resist knowledge resistance – and when10 Is knowledge resistance always bad, and other questionsIndex