Arguments for the Sake of Collegiate Heaven

Key Findings:

Meaningful, rational debate has seen a decline on college campuses. 

One cited case study is the invitation of Amanda Seales, an actress known for her pro-Hamas rhetoric, to speak at a University of Maryland social justice symposium. When Goldfarb and Kirsch questioned university leaders regarding their decision to platform Seales as a speaker, they responded with confidence in their choice. 

In contrast, Rep. Jamie Raskin, a Jewish Democrat, was heckled offstage by anti-Zionist protestors who refused to engage in dialogue. The university president described this incident as an example of free speech and democracy, asserting that “these are the difficult conversations that we should be having.”

The authors advocate for the showcasing of diverse points of view on college campuses, but caution against exclusion of certain voices based on identity alone. The silencing of Raskin is especially concerning because it was based on his identity as a Zionist Jew, rather than the content of argument. 

Goldfarb and Kirsch are actively working on initiatives to address these challenges. This includes building coalitions with like-minded faculty, supporting the development of relevant courses and research, as well as utilizing their roles as educators in the business program to emphasize the importance of open debate and inquiry to their students. In addition, a course that teaches students how to engage in rational, fact-based debate has been implemented. Their ultimate goal is to help transform the university’s culture into one that prioritizes respectful, evidence-based discourse, equipping students with the tools to carry these principles into their professional careers and beyond.