In the usual debates that have as their object the role of the intellectual, one of the modern errors is probably the will to insist that distinguishes this figure suldualismo our national imagination . In theory it attaches to the literature , a necessary civic engagement : the writer engagé since become legitimized by its status . The ' expectation has therefore generated unm oderno feeling of nostalgia for a romantic stereotype of intellectual , more imaginary than real. We must also not forget the context of reference, because no sector of society is immune from the crisis, not only in the economic but also political and social . While this accadevaintellettuale -humanist continued to devote himself to his art , literature . as if this crisis does not concern him . The festival , literary prizes have continued undisturbed their adventure , without formatting and closer to the television genre as much opposed . Then there is the deep sense of belonging to the " grid " that since the war never ceases to confuse and deceive .
For many, the question is no longer about who is now an intellectual , worse not know who it is, but to preserve the defined categories , seemingly autonomous . In contemporary society, the system of opposites and alternatives loses its relevance , effectiveness , when the "crisis " and the disenchantment of capitalism push for the creation of the strongest structures of cohesion . In this regard, Roberto Carnera in his speech that appeared in this newspaper last Saturday, and dedicated to the " debacle of the intellectuals ," concluded sapienternente leaving open a reflection on the role and function of the Catholics , complaining about a
unusual silence. In our country the intellectual, from the director to the philosopher , the scientist at the union , it would seem perfectly integrated , the function of which appears headed to the legitimacy , consent , and above all, infinite enough to see that a lot of surveys , petitions and collect signatures. In the era medial also a new elite , established a regime of visibility , make the difference with the past, because the profit margins and visibility now produce a derivation of consensus. To the intellectuals often lack self-criticism. Habermas argued , otherwise the affair degenerates narcissistic exhibitionism in the media. The reference is also to considerations of Giorgio Campanini , who rightly wondered , on these pages, if the escape dall'engagement was not a reaction to a predominance and organization of public discourse in the media .
ln this context, we can therefore define Catholic intellectuals or atheists ? Or sent? Because if that were the case would be useless sacrifice of many. What difference is interposed between the figure in Sicily Peppino kneaded and that of Don Giuseppe Puglisi ? And what in Campania between Giancarlo Siani and Don Giuseppe Diana? The values of the Christian residing in the example and sacrifice . We should reverse the field of reading, as the war to date the role played by some priests or priests is the emblem of the highest intellectuality committed .
Giampaolo Furgiuele
L'Avvenire