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‘Professors are the enemy’: Trump’s war on higher education
Mar 26, 2025
Joseph Howley, a Professor of Classics at Columbia University, offers keen insights into the escalating conflict between higher education and political forces. He discusses Trump's $400 million funding withdrawal from Columbia due to alleged anti-Semitism and the implications for academic freedom. The chilling climate of fear among professors echoes McCarthyism, as dissenting voices are stifled. Howley also addresses the university's response to protests linked to the Gaza crisis, highlighting the dangerous impact of political interference.
34:53
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the tension between student activism and university authorities, marked by police raids that instilled fear among protesting students.
- It addresses the politicization of campus dialogues surrounding Israel and Palestine, where accusations of anti-Semitism are used to suppress dissent and undermine academic freedoms.
Deep dives
The Impact of Campus Protests
In the wake of the conflict in Gaza, student protests erupted across campuses, including Columbia University, where students demanded divestment from Israel. These protests transformed into encampments, symbolizing a space for solidarity and community amid tumultuous political sentiments. Some faculty members expressed their support for the activists, framing their efforts as necessary for raising awareness about Palestinian struggles. However, the intensity of these protests raised concerns about potential repercussions for the students involved, leading to a significant clash between student activists and university authorities.
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Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode