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Description

Added comprehensive definitions for "highbrow" and "lowbrow" terms, exposing their problematic origins in the racist pseudoscience of phrenology. Both definitions include historical context, etymology, connection to scientific racism, modern usage impact, and suggested alternatives. The entries follow Self-Defined's mission of revealing how seemingly innocent language perpetuates harmful hierarchies.

Related Issue

solves issue #381

Motivation and Context

These terms are commonly used in cultural discussions but most people are unaware that they originate from phrenology - a discredited pseudoscience that claimed skull shape determined intelligence and was used to justify racial hierarchies. The terms "highbrow" (sophisticated culture) and "lowbrow" (popular culture) continue to perpetuate cultural hierarchies that often correlate with class, race, and educational access. By defining these terms, we help people understand the problematic foundations of language they may use unconsciously.

How Has This Been Tested?

  • Verified that both markdown files follow the established front matter structure used by other definitions in the repository
  • Confirmed content warnings are properly formatted with the flag field
  • Ensured reading resources link to credible sources including academic works and historical documentation
    Cross-referenced information with Wikipedia sources on phrenology and the etymology of these terms
  • Checked that see-also links reference existing or commonly referenced terms in the dictionary

Screenshots (if appropriate):

Types of changes

  • Bug fix (non-breaking change which fixes an issue)
  • New feature (non-breaking change which adds functionality)
  • Breaking change (fix or feature that would cause existing functionality to change)

Checklist:

  • I have read the CONTRIBUTING document.
  • My code follows the code style of this project.
  • I have added tests to cover my changes.
  • All new and existing tests passed.

@Rajat32-op Rajat32-op closed this by deleting the head repository Oct 13, 2025
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