Here’s a post for the academics who read this blog. Over at his Inside Higher Ed blog, historian Steve Mintz writes: “As an academic, I’ve encountered a complicated taxonomy of professors that goes beyond these stereotypes.” He suggests ten categories of professor:
- The academic entrepreneurs: These scholars leverage their research and expertise to create partnerships, secure grants or even establish businesses or consultancies. While their work has practical, real-world applications, they are often viewed as prioritizing financial success and external validation over intellectual inquiry.
- The deadwood: Often tenured faculty who have disengaged from active scholarship, these academics are perceived as coasting through their careers, doing the bare minimum without contributing to research innovation, curriculum development or mentorship.
- The activists: Passionate about social justice and political causes, activist academics use their positions to advocate for change. While their work can be impactful, it sometimes leads to tension within the academy when activism is seen as overtaking scholarly rigor.
- The narrowly focused specialists: Scholars deeply committed to a particular niche within their discipline. While their work pushes the boundaries of their fields, their focus is often so narrow that it becomes inaccessible to those outside their specialty.
- The research rock stars: Known for their groundbreaking research and high productivity, these academics frequently publish in top-tier journals and secure large grants. However, their focus on research often comes at the expense of teaching and service.
- The popularizers: Academics who bridge the gap between academia and the general public. Though often envied or dismissed by colleagues for simplifying complex ideas, popularizers play a crucial role in making academic insights accessible and relevant beyond the ivory tower.
- The teaching stars: Charismatic and dedicated educators who prioritize pedagogy and student success. Beloved by students, these professors may struggle to gain recognition in research-focused institutions, where teaching is undervalued compared to research output.
- The university bureaucrats: Academics who transition into administrative roles, focusing on governance, policy and institutional strategy. While they are essential for the functioning of universities, they are often seen as disconnected from the day-to-day challenges of teaching and research.
- Public intellectuals: Figures like Noam Chomsky and Cornel West, who use their academic credentials to engage with the public on pressing social, political and cultural issues. They are often provocateurs, unafraid to challenge dominant narratives and engage in controversial debates.
- Genuine intellectuals: The rarest breed, these individuals are dedicated to the life of the mind, engaging with big ideas that transcend disciplinary boundaries. They pursue knowledge for its own sake and are less concerned with practical applications, making their work both profound and, at times, inaccessible.
Which one are you?