In this provocative talk, writer and self-described socialist, Freddie deBoer, unpacks the central themes of his important book, The Cult of Smart. DeBoer challenges the shibboleths on the left and right regarding intellectual ability and school choice. He argues that intellectual differences are real and deeply consequential, as society lavishes rewards on the naturally gifted and reduces human worth to intellectual prowess. Yet the meritocracy can and should be dismantled, deBoer maintains, without denying the basic realities of human difference.

Freddie DeBoer is a writer, academic, and the author of The Cult of Smart. His works have appeared in dozens of outlets, including The New York Times, Current Affairs, Harper’s, Foreign Affairs, and The Guardian. He is described by Macmillan as “one of the most original and prolific voices” today, whose “anti-tribal style has earned him admiration from political thinkers of all quadrants.” You can read his latest musings on his highly popular Substack page. He resides in Brooklyn, New York.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m. We ask attendees to be vaccinated.

Childcare is provided. Ample parking available.

$5 suggested donation for non-members of the Ethical Culture Society of Westchester to help with speaker fees and the monthly secular speaker series. Co-sponsored by the Secular Hub of Westchester.