Understanding Arrogance in Modernity

Arrogance in modernity is not just a personal attribute, but a systemic and cultural trait passed on to those raised in modern societies. It reflects a deep-seated sense of importance and a presumed superiority of knowledge, status, or power. This culturally embedded arrogance not only affects individual health and wellbeing but also impacts interpersonal relationships and societal structures. Dismantling this arrogance requires both recognizing its insidious presence in ourselves and our institutions, as well as relinquishing the advantages it bestows upon us.

The Role of Arrogance in Institutions

In institutions where arrogance is normalized and rewarded, challenging and moving away from this trait can be difficult and counterintuitive. Arrogance is institutionally sanctioned when it manifests in specific bodies, and is deeply satisfying, as it stimulates feelings of power and success. Often, it acts as a shield to protect deeper insecurities and fears. Therefore, disinvesting from arrogance is not merely an act of rejecting beneficial traits but involves a diligent process of unpacking and reevaluating our interactions and feelings of self-worth.

Confronting Academic Arrogance

De Oliveira provides examples of academic settings where arrogance is challenged. A conference on Indigenous knowledge systems in Alberta, Canada, is particularly highlighted for its inclusive approach that sought to mitigate the university's arrogance. This included altering the environment and schedule to accommodate elders, families, and marginalized groups traditionally alienated in educational settings. This effort to deconstruct academic arrogance illustrated the relativity and conditional acceptance of knowledge systems within hierarchical structures of education.

The Encounter with Systemic Arrogance

The author narrates a distressing incident where systemic arrogance leads to the undignified treatment of a young Indigenous person on university grounds. The story serves as a powerful critique of how institutional arrogance is enforced and the ethical dilemma it presents for bystanders. The author reflects on the societal inclination to normalize and overlook such instances of arrogance-induced oppression, questioning the responsibility of individuals and institutions in resisting this arrogance.

Academic Disciplinary Hierarchies

Hierarchies within disciplines at the university further emphasize systemic arrogance. The author experienced these hierarchies firsthand in an interdisciplinary program that ranked disciplines by perceived importance and objectivity. This dynamic reveals the deep-rooted arrogance inherent in academia, privileging certain ways of knowing over others. An educational exercise is presented to encourage academics to recognize and confront their own reflexive arrogance, promoting humility and critical self-awareness.

Towards Academia without Arrogance

In closing, the chapter suggests a vision for an academic world less tainted by arrogance. With a relational cost-benefit analysis, the author urges academics to consider the benefits of shedding arrogance, which includes improved conversations, respect for diverse disciplines, and the combination of relational and rational rigor. Exercises invite readers to introspect on the personal manifestations of arrogance and to weigh the possibility of change, aiming for an environment where humility, humor, and self-criticism are valued over self-importance and entitlement.