"ivory tower"的定义和意义

What is the origin of the idiom "ivory tower" and when to use it?

The idiom "ivory tower" traces its origins to the 19th century and is believed to have been popularized by the French poet Alfred de Vigny. It refers to the idea of an isolated, remote, and often unrealistic place where intellectuals, scholars, or academics engage in pursuits that are disconnected from the practical concerns and realities of everyday life. The term "ivory" in the phrase symbolizes a sense of purity, privilege, and detachment from the world. This expression is often used to criticize or describe individuals, particularly intellectuals or academics, who are perceived as being out of touch with the real world or as having impractical and idealistic views.