We must not put academic knowledge beyond scrutiny

We live in an age defined by knowledge. We are acutely aware of its value and importance to humanity.

- ANURAG BEHAR

The institutions that produce knowledge—our universities, research institutions and think-tanks—are rightfully held in high esteem. Their contributions to human well-being over centuries have earned them this credibility. Yet, their stature also shields them from the necessary scrutiny that we readily apply in other domains like politics and business. The failures of a government or corporation are dissected and debated. The failures of our knowledge production ecosystem, however, often get a free pass.

This is a dangerous oversight.

Before we explore why, let’s be clear about our subject. I am speaking here of the role of this knowledge ecosystem in producing knowledge through research. I am purposely setting aside its equally vital educational function. And we must acknowledge its big and many achievements, largely from the physical sciences, that have earned it immense societal credit. This credit has consolidated a core principle: That society must support the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake, with the freedom to inquire into anything, guided only by internal ethical boundaries. The potential benefits of a line of inquiry are often unknown at the outset.