Intellectuals often engage in bold advocacy for ideas and causes that they might personally find distasteful if they were confronted with the reality of those ideas. This highlights a disconnect between theoretical beliefs and practical experiences, suggesting that intellectuals can sometimes promote lofty ideals without fully grappling with their implications. The complexities of human behavior and moral philosophy come into play, as individuals may champion views they would not comfortably face in real life.

In Matthew Scully's "Dominion: The Power of Man, the Suffering of Animals, and the Call to Mercy," this observation serves to critique the way intellectuals navigate ethical issues surrounding animal rights and human impact. The book encourages readers to reflect on the moral responsibilities that come with advocating for change, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's beliefs with actions. Ultimately, Scully calls for a deeper understanding of the relationship between humanity and the suffering of animals through a more compassionate lens.