Philistines

The term 'Philistines' refers to a people of the southwestern coastal area of Canaan (present-day Gaza Strip and surrounding areas) from the 12th century BCE until their assimilation. In a broader and more common, albeit often pejorative, sense, 'Philistines' designates people perceived as being hostile or indifferent to culture, the arts, and intellectual pursuits. They are often seen as materialistic, unrefined, and lacking in sophistication or appreciation for beauty. The term implies a certain boorishness or lack of refinement, and sometimes a threat to established societal norms or values.

Philistines meaning with examples

• The art critic dismissed the audience as Philistines when they booed during the avant-garde performance, showcasing their apparent lack of understanding and appreciation for modern art. They just didn't get it! The critics felt that their lack of sensitivity and empathy made them unable to experience the beauty of performance art.
• After the economic downturn, the funding for the arts programs was drastically cut, much to the dismay of the artists and intellectuals, who accused the government of acting like Philistines by valuing profit over cultural enrichment, prioritizing financial matters. Their action resulted in resentment, loss of morale, and ultimately a lower society.
• The intellectual debated with his colleagues, frustrated by the general public's seeming apathy towards complex philosophical ideas, decrying them as Philistines for their lack of engagement with the deeper questions of life. He believed their lack of interest in intellectual pursuits would be society's downfall.
• She scoffed at her colleague's simple decor, regarding him as a Philistine for his preference of function over artistic expression, and for not displaying any artwork. She was offended at the lack of aesthetic thought, accusing him of crass materialist ideals, completely uninterested in any higher sense of culture.
• The historian argued that the destruction of ancient libraries and the suppression of knowledge by a certain faction showed them to be acting like Philistines, destroying the legacy of the past. They are trying to change history, destroying everything that is good from the past.