# Becoming an (Analytic) Public Intellectual By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2022-08-22 Analytics is an intellectual pursuit. Cogent and effective analysis requires thinking. Defining a problem, developing an approach, collecting a set of data, and interpreting results each require discernment. Part of becoming an effective analyst is learning analytic techniques. Another part is developing a mindset and sense of self-directed towards making effective use of one’s analytic skills. In some respects, analysts are called to become public intellectuals. At a minimum, they benefit from performing this function within organizations. So what is a public intellectual? In [[The Responsibility of Intellectuals]] [[Noam Chomsky]] explained, “intellectuals are in a position to expose the lies of governments, to analyze actions according to their causes and motives and often hidden intentions…they have the [[power]] that comes from political liberty, from access to [[information]] and [[freedom]] of expression…it is the responsibility of intellectuals to speak the truth and to expose lies.” From Chomsky’s definition, there are connections to analysts. Like intellectuals, analysts can expose lies (errors, or misunderstandings), analyze actions (and situations), and they have the power that comes from a unique skill set.  The question quickly becomes so what is one going to do with one’s hard-developed ability? Becoming an analyst isn’t easy. It is certainly understandable if after taking the time and investment to become an analyst if one decided to simply perform organizational analysis for a nice paycheck. Of course, making [[money]] is nice. But analysts are also able to make a difference. Doing so requires strength. Speaking truth to power is seldom popular or financially rewarding. Organizations, and society in general, don’t need more wealthy people. What is in short supply are people willing to confront, [[critique]], and improve situations of degradation and despair. Analysts of the world unite! You have nothing to lose but your chains! #### Related Items [[Analytics]] [[Public Intellectual]] [[Intellectual]] [[Mindset]] [[Speaking Truth to Power]] [[The niceness barrier]] [[Thinking]]