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Reforming the politically correct university
Debates about political correctness on campus have raged for decades now. Some argue there is no such thing, while others point to case after case demonstrably proving that PC is very real indeed. Too often, the big picture gets lost in these "he said, she said" sorts of arguments. After all, the endpoint is not to show that PC exists -- but to find ways to restore free inquiry, robust debate, and intellectual fairness at our colleges and universities. A new anthology from the American Enterprise Institute entitled The Politically Correct University: Problems, Scope, and Reforms aims to do just that.
The book features sixteen essays, including contributions from National Association of Scholars chairman (and ACTA board member) Stephen H. Balch, the Manhattan Institute's John McWhorter, Hoover Institution scholar Victor Davis Hanson, former U.S. Senator and University of Colorado president Hank Brown, and ACTA's very own Anne D. Neal.
In her chapter, Neal takes up the following question: "Should alumni and trustees remain silent when academic freedom is threatened, educational standards decline, or political agendas drive academic decisions?" Her answer is a resounding "no." She goes on to outline how both groups can become actively involved in ensuring educational quality and free inquiry, while respecting academic freedom.
"Engaged alumni can press administrators and trustees to be accountable in ways no one else can," she notes, citing cases where alums from Dartmouth, Colgate, Hamilton College, CUNY, and the University of Chicago did just that. Likewise, "trustees are legally and financially responsible for the well-being of their institution." While historically faculties and presidents have kept trustees at arm's length, Neal observes, that's beginning to change. She cites encouraging developments at the University of Colorado, SUNY, South Dakota, CUNY, Cal State, and others.
Don't miss this must-read.
Posted by David Azerrad on October 06, 2009 at October 6, 2009 11:17 AM
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