From the left: Confessions of a Token Black Prof
In a candid critique of academia’s shortcomings, Tyler Austin Harper of The Atlantic sheds light on his decision to leave a promising position at Bates College. Harper argues that the extreme adherence to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, along with what he refers to as “wokery,” serves as a diversion for senior faculty. These movements, he suggests, detract from addressing deeper issues like student debt and soaring tuition fees. By championing causes like Black Lives Matter, #MeToo, and trans rights, colleges conveniently sidestep their economic and social responsibilities. Harper asserts that embracing social justice rhetoric while focusing on faculty diversity offered a superficial and cost-effective solution compared to lowering tuition or expanding tenure-track opportunities. Meanwhile, graduates of elite institutions often pursue careers in tech, finance, or consulting, casting doubt on the claim that they are being groomed for civic virtue.
Science beat: To Root Out Fauci’s Rot
Mike Fallagher of The Wall Street Journal raises alarm over the systemic dysfunction in government science, highlighted by Anthony Fauci’s diaries. He points to a critical report by White House official Michał Kratsios, emphasizing that current institutions and funding frameworks are inadequate for modern research demands. Fallagher advocates for Kratsios’ reform agenda, which encourages backing unconventional proposals and enhancing collaboration between academia, national laboratories, and industry. By embracing deregulation and empowering scientists, he argues, the undue influence of bureaucratic gatekeepers could be diminished, ultimately serving national interests. Restructuring the institutions that supported figures like Dr. Fauci, Fallagher believes, is necessary for progress.
Culture critic: Art Museum Rejects Beauty
The launch of the David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art has sparked criticism for its stark design and unconventional exhibit arrangement. Caitlin Flanagan of The Free Press describes the galleries as engulfed in “Soviet gray” brutalism, with art displayed in what she calls a “garage-sale style” under “museum abolition theory.” This approach rejects traditional categorizations by period, place, or artist, leading to what Flanagan deems a chaotic jumble reminiscent of a real-life TikTok feed, with constantly shifting displays. She argues that the galleries eschew educational value and fail to inspire with beauty, leaving visitors wanting more from their cultural experience.
Conservative: Dem Establishment Hugs Its Killers
In the quest to reclaim political dominance, Democrats like Senator Chuck Schumer are accused of shielding leftist extremists, according to Fox News’ Jonathan Turley. Despite the establishment’s apparent indifference to radical factions within their ranks, these groups are acutely aware of the establishment’s implications. Activists like David Hogg argue that the Democratic party’s “big tent” doesn’t accommodate their ideals, while brocaster Hasan Piker seeks to root out Democrats not endorsing figures like Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, labeling dissenters as “haters” deserving of reprimand. Schumer’s reliance on inclusive narratives, Turley warns, might backfire if these candidates secure victories, revealing the party’s tent to be less expansive than presumed.
Libertarian: Inside the Dem-Socialist Appeal
J.D. Tuccille of Reason takes aim at the recent rise of socialism among young college graduates, attributing it to a disconnect between credentials and economic reality. With universities producing an oversupply of graduates burdened with debt from degrees that offer limited career prospects, these individuals often misdirect their frustrations towards capitalism, Western civilization, and even Israel and Jews. Tuccille defends free-market capitalism as a driver of liberty and prosperity, contrasting it with what he sees as the repressive nature of socialism. He cautions against today’s radical ideologies, which blend outdated and dangerous doctrines such as totalitarianism and bigotry into a seemingly modern political creed that attracts those dissatisfied with their circumstances.
— Compiled by The Post Editorial Board