The New Liberal Podcast
Why Class Matters ft. Richard Kahlenberg
Mar 25, 2025
Richard Kahlenberg, author of 'Class Matters' and advocate for class-based affirmative action, dives into the complexities of diversity in elite universities. He argues that shifting from race-based to class-based policies better addresses socioeconomic disparities. The conversation touches on the historical context of affirmative action, the implications of recent Supreme Court rulings, and the controversial legacy admissions favoring affluent students. Kahlenberg emphasizes the need for a united working-class coalition to foster true diversity on campuses.
53:40
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Quick takeaways
- Richard Kahlenberg argues that class-based affirmative action can better achieve real diversity in elite universities compared to race-based policies.
- The podcast critiques legacy admissions for perpetuating socioeconomic disparities, advocating for a shift towards admissions that prioritize economic disadvantage and genuine merit.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Affirmative Action
The discussion highlights the historical context of affirmative action in the United States, particularly the division among civil rights leaders regarding its implementation. While some advocated for racial preferences and quotas to address systemic injustices faced by Black individuals, others, like Martin Luther King Jr. and Bayard Rustin, argued for an economic approach that focused on class rather than race. This perspective emphasized that economically disadvantaged individuals, regardless of race, deserved support in overcoming their circumstances. The underlying intent was to foster unity among diverse working-class groups and address broader issues of inequality without deepening racial divides.
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