Yet I don’t find imagery of the ivory tower palatable either. The ivory is luxurious because it is rare, bought and paid for by only those who can afford it. It is rare because rhinos had to be killed for its harvest. A tower also means the inhabitant must ascend to her place of solitude…you see where I am going with this.

Artists and artisans have also less space and time (and time is money) set aside for their contrary, inquisitive, adventurous skills and minds. Maybe we need an protected agora! The protection doesn’t come from us constantly defending ourselves. It comes from the rest of society appreciating philosophy, the lovers of wisdom. A retreat to the ivory tower may limit our engagement with society, thus limiting their appreciation.