In The Constitution of Knowledge, Jonathan Rauch defends the epistemic institutions—science, journalism, academia—that uphold truth in democratic societies. He explores how norms like open debate, peer review, and fact-checking serve as a “constitution” governing the marketplace of ideas. Amid rising disinformation and tribal polarization, Rauch argues for preserving this knowledge system through free speech, tolerance, and intellectual humility. Blending political philosophy, history, and media studies, the book is both a defense and a roadmap for safeguarding truth in a digital age. It's an essential read for anyone concerned about democracy, truth, and the future of civil discourse.
About Jonathan Rauch
Jonathan Rauch is an American author, journalist, and senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. His work spans politics, public policy, and social issues, with a focus on free speech, liberal democracy, and truth-seeking institutions. In The Constitution of Knowledge, Rauch articulates a defense of the social structures—like journalism and science—that enable societies to reach consensus on truth. He also authored Kindly Inquisitors, a classic work on intellectual freedom. A contributing writer for The Atlantic, Rauch is known for his calm, reasoned voice and for championing civil discourse, open debate, and the value of shared epistemic standards.
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