It's often used to describe someone who:
* Lacks the ability to think critically or creatively. They may struggle to understand complex ideas or come up with innovative solutions.
* Relies heavily on clichés, outdated information, or shallow reasoning. They may repeat the same arguments without any real depth of understanding.
* Is unwilling to learn new things or consider different perspectives. They may be closed-minded and resistant to change.
Here's how it relates to the concept of bankruptcy:
* Bankruptcy implies a state of financial ruin, where one is unable to pay their debts.
* Intellectual bankruptcy suggests a similar state of depletion, where someone has exhausted their intellectual resources and is unable to produce anything meaningful or valuable.
It's important to note that this phrase is often used as a harsh criticism and should be used with caution. While it can be helpful to describe certain intellectual shortcomings, it can also be seen as insulting and dismissive.
It's always better to be specific about the particular weaknesses you're observing rather than resorting to such a general and potentially derogatory label.