Final answer:
Michel de Montaigne's views on academics and philosophers are not directly provided, but based on his works, he seems to value reflective thought and personal judgment, acknowledging the limitations of human knowledge. He might align with the idea that scholarly culture is vital for society and that learning should be practical.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement made by Michel de Montaigne regarding academics and philosophers is not explicitly detailed in the provided references. However, considering the context of Montaigne's work and the philosophical perspectives of his era, it might be reasonable to infer that Montaigne valued thoughtful reflection on human experience and the understanding of the self. His essays cover a variety of topics, exhibiting skepticism about human reason's ability to attain certain knowledge, as well as emphasizing the importance of developing one's judgment.
Montaigne was known for his exploration of the nature of man and the world around him, arguably aligning more closely with the philosophy that knowledge contributes to the understanding of the divine, or that scholarly culture is essential for society.
Yet, Montaigne also highlighted the limitations of human knowledge and the value of personal experience and practical wisdom, perhaps suggesting that all learning should be practical and useful. It is important to note that without a direct quote from Montaigne, any option chosen would be based on interpretation rather than a definitive statement by Montaigne himself.