Street-smart individuals often possess a wealth of knowledge that goes unacknowledged. Society tends to place too much emphasis on formal education, often disregarding the smarts of the street. Enter hidden intellectualism, an idea coined by Gerald Graff. Hidden intellectualism unearths the hidden intelligence in streetwise individuals, recognizing it’s worth in the academic sphere.
In this article, we explore the meaning of hidden intellectualism and more importantly, highlight the brilliance of street-savvy individuals.
The prevailing notion is that academic intelligence and street smarts are mutually exclusive. However, it’s crucial to understand that street smarts is intelligence in its own right. The street is a world of its own, with its own rules and language. Those who grow up in this environment learn to adapt, to read between the lines and deal with real-life problems. These skills prove essential in many walks of life.
Recognizing the talents of street-smart individuals is key, and Graff advocates for the incorporation of street-style intelligence into academic settings. By doing so, it creates an environment where all forms of intelligence are valued, not just those deemed worthy by society.
It’s vital to note that this hidden intellectualism isn’t about disregarding critical thinking skills learned in formal academic education. Instead, it highlights how individuals can possess both academic intelligence and street smarts, creating a well-rounded and insightful individual.
In the United States, studies show that working-class students often felt alienated in academic settings. These students saw sports and other extracurricular activities as more valuable than traditional studies. This frustration can lead to students dropping out of formal education altogether, which could have ramifications for the rest of their lives. However, highlighting the value that these extracurricular interests offer could play a part in retaining students. It shows that the skills these activities develop provide valuable life experience, which is coveted in various fields.
In conclusion, recognizing hidden intellectualism and its value in academic settings is critical. The development of well-rounded and insightful individuals not only elevates one’s personal growth but helps enrich society as a whole. It’s time to acknowledge the valuable skills street-smart individuals possess and the richness they can bring to our fields of study.
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