"An intellectual is someone who avoids the mundane by lowering his handicap"

This quote by Richard Reeves recommends that an intellectual is somebody who has the ability to increase above the ordinary and daily tasks of life. By decreasing their handicap, they are able to focus on more meaningful and essential jobs. This could mean that an intellectual is somebody who is able to think seriously and analytically, and is able to look beyond the surface of things. They are able to believe outside the box and develop imaginative services to problems. They are also able to recognize the value of knowledge and knowing, and are willing to put in the effort to acquire it. An intellectual is someone who has the ability to rise above the ordinary and daily tasks of life, and has the ability to focus on more meaningful and essential tasks.