Scholarly Heroism: A Transdisciplinary Perspective on David Bohm’s Transformative Scholarship and Intellectual Exile

Abstract

In this article, I claim that the best scholars—individuals who achieve the most important advances or breakthroughs in knowledge and understanding—are often heroic. I argue that David Bohm exemplifies scholarly heroism, and my remarks are focused on his ideas and heroic qualities. I define a heroic scholar as a scientist or nonscientist whose commitment to the pursuit of truth is so strong, and whose achievements are so important, that he or she is willing to navigate professional difficulties, even give up income, security, and status, to stay true to themselves and their calling. Such scholars are virtuous, competent, and courageous, which are—according to heroism researchers Goethals and Allison—the three essential characteristics of heroism. Heroic scholars are morally fearless, not willing to compromise their principles (the pursuit of truth in service of good), and sell their souls for the spoils of office.