Fareed Zakaria GPS
Lee Bollinger on Trump’s Attack on Harvard and Academic Freedom
Apr 20, 2025
Lee Bollinger, former President of Columbia University and a prominent First Amendment scholar, dives into the alarming attacks on academic freedom by the Trump administration. He discusses the implications of government power on prestigious institutions like Harvard, emphasizing the risks to free speech. Alongside him, author Michael Lewis sheds light on his book, revealing the often-overlooked, vital work of America's civil servants amidst a climate that diminishes their value. This lively conversation navigates the crossroads of education, politics, and public service.
42:52
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Quick takeaways
- The Trump administration's threats to universities represent a significant challenge to academic freedom akin to historical governmental oppression.
- Michael Lewis's insights highlight the dedication of federal workers, countering negative stereotypes and emphasizing their vital contributions to society.
Deep dives
Trump's Challenge to Higher Education
The Trump administration has imposed significant pressure on America's top universities, threatening to cut funding unless they comply with its demands regarding admissions and staffing policies. This move is seen not only as a financial attack but also as an encroachment on academic freedom, likening the situation to the McCarthy-era suppression of dissent. The administration's tactics have sparked intense debate about the intersection of government power and institutional autonomy in education. Critics argue that such actions could fundamentally alter the relationship between universities and federal funding, potentially chilling free inquiry and expression.
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