The university excuse for specialization

Our columnist Ralph Müller argues that «research should delve deeper into the questions of all, rather than digging into the anxieties of none». As for subjects already accepted, such as inclusive writing, they should be «an object of debate rather than a mere lobbying tool».

In Taille de l'homme, Ramuz writes that the poor, the simple, ask questions dictated by urgency. As for the «intellectuals», they like to pamper the worries whispered by ease. They snub the big questions because they thrive on the little answers. They don't stoop to eternal questioning, naïve vertigo, benign enthusiasm. Their greatness flourishes in the realm of the small, and they are the great champions of the minuscule.

Specialization is the hallowed path of this underground intoxication. A convenient excuse for all resignations. «It's not my subject!