"Since it is seldom clear whether intellectual activity denotes a superior mode of being or a vital deficiency, opinion swings between considering intellect a privilege and seeing it as a handicap"

Jacques Barzun's quote delves into the paradoxical nature of intellectual activity and how it is viewed in terms of human worth and ability. This statement records the conflicting point of views on whether intellectualism elevates the human condition or highlights a lack within people who engage mainly in psychological pursuits.

To start with, Barzun points out that the worth of intellectual activity is typically uncertain. The expression "seldom clear" highlights the ongoing argument and lack of agreement about the function of intellect in one's life. On one hand, intellectual activity can be perceived as a "exceptional mode of being". This view suggests that engaging deeply with intellectual pursuits places people on a higher airplane of presence, one where reasoning, vital thinking, and knowledge acquisition are the pinnacle of human accomplishments. In this sense, intellectualism is viewed as an opportunity, marking a person as progressed, capable, and sensible.

Alternatively, Barzun also acknowledges the view that intellectual activity may be indicative of a "crucial deficiency". This viewpoint sees the excessive concentrate on intelligence as a potential detriment, where over-reliance on logical thought might lead to a disconnection from emotional, practical, or social elements of life. From this angle, intellect can look like a handicap, providing insight into the restrictions related to living too much in one's head, potentially at the expense of other aspects of the human experience.

The "opinion swings" Barzun describes recommend an oscillation in between these two views, reflecting society's struggle to fix up the benefits and disadvantages of intellectualism. This tension mirrors more comprehensive cultural and philosophical disputes about the nature of intelligence and its place in human identity. Whether intelligence is seen as a present or a problem, Barzun's quote encapsulates the intricacy of understanding intellectual activity's role in defining human worth and the diverse ways it is accepted or critiqued.