There has always been dispute over which ideas are most significant. But there used to be broad agreement about the qualities required and the great works of the field. Now from the creative arts to the social sciences there are claims that previous standards were forms of prejudice and calls are heard for greater inclusion.
How do we navigate this new space where there is no agreement on merit? Should the origin of an idea be as important as its content? Should we abandon the idea of great works altogether? Or does this threaten the very success of our culture and all that we hold to be valuable?
Founder of MsAfropolitan Minna Salami and literary theorist Stanley Fish rethink what makes a great work of art.