We live in an age when the most unobjectionable and necessary ideas for progress can give rise to paranoia and fear. If the most innocuous, unoriginal possible idea can fuel paranoia, how can we hope to have a sensible discussion about the future of our places?
Teacher Sam Shain was caught in the middle of the culture war when he taught a book about racism. He discusses that experience, and explains why it’s so important for teachers not to shy away from “controversial” political topics.
College is too expensive, but we need to defend the idea of higher education against those who call it a “scam.” We don’t just need job training; the pursuit of knowledge for knowledge’s sake is everyone’s right.
Some school districts have begun outsourcing in-person teaching positions to ‘edtech’ companies that offer remote teachers. But this is not going to make labor conditions better for teachers, or classrooms better for students.
If the governor of Florida wants a culture war, he should get one. Students and faculty must resist right-wing efforts to remake liberal arts education. The right can be defeated.