The 21st century is defined by an exponential proliferation of digital technologies, globalization, and an overwhelming flow of information, demanding new approaches to education and intellectual engagement. This paper explores the essential competencies modern scholars must develop to navigate and contribute to this complex environment. Anchored in the concept of "intellectual self-defense," the study identifies critical thinking, media literacy, technical literacy (encompassing web technologies, social networks, immersive and virtual reality (VR) platforms, and artificial intelligence), multidisciplinary education, problem-solving, and digital hygiene as foundational skills.The methodology employs a mixed qualitative approach, including an extensive literature review of contemporary pedagogical frameworks, comparative analysis of existing educational programs, and case studies showcasing best practices in fostering these competencies. Critical thinking is presented as the cornerstone, fostering objective analysis, bias discernment, and integration of diverse perspectives for informed decision-making. Media literacy equips individuals to evaluate information sources' credibility and counter misinformation. Technical literacy extends this capability, emphasizing proficiency in using web technologies, responsibly engaging with social networks, VR environments, and AI systems while safeguarding ethical standards and privacy.Multidisciplinary education is analyzed as a framework for integrative thinking and innovative problem-solving through the synthesis of insights across disciplines. Problem-solving is explored as an adaptive, iterative process crucial for addressing challenges posed by rapid technological and societal changes. Digital hygiene is highlighted as critical for maintaining personal security, privacy management, and responsible online behavior. The findings argue that these interconnected competencies collectively empower scholars to critically uphold intellectual autonomy, resist manipulation, and actively contribute to a global digital society. By adopting these methods of intellectual self-defense, modern scholars can thrive in a technologically complex era characterized by information overload while preserving ethical, meaningful participation in public discourse. The results of this study contribute to the development of a structured, actionable framework for educational institutions to integrate these competencies effectively.

Keywords: Critical thinking, media literacy, technical literacy, immersive technologies, artificial intelligence, multidisciplinary education, problem-solving, digital hygiene, 21st-century competences.