Lenka S. reviewed Illiberal Education: The Politics of Race and Sex on Campus on + 850 more book reviews
I listened to the audible version of this book. While I do not share the authors political persuasion, I must give credit where it is due. His writing and research here was very well done and a lot of his points were well made. The efforts to encourage diversity on college campuses have gone on the wrong track in that they have stifled expression and led to a lack of open dialogue on campuses and violate the 1st amendment rights of students and professors alike. Offensive speech should be allowed and the counter to that should be rational argument, logic and facts and yes, protest as well, within bounds of reason. At the end of the day, engaging with people you disagree with, or even find offensive, builds up your skills and makes you stronger. That is what makes for a true liberal education. The author also makes a good point that many students from disadvantaged backgrounds are not fully prepared to succeed in college, given the issues and severe disparities in the public school system. That is something that college administrators and government officials must consider and address and does not look like much had been accomplished in the 25 years since this book came out. I may not agree with his conclusions and proposed solutions but overall the points are very well made and the book is worth reading. At least for readers and future educators to be aware and to think about a solution.
