The Good Fight Michael Powell on Race, Class, and Free Speech
Nov 20, 2021
Michael Powell, a New York Times reporter focused on free speech and identity politics, dives deep into the cultural shifts within elite institutions. He discusses the changing attitudes on free speech, especially within academia, where faculty fear backlash over controversial topics. Powell critiques media representations of Critical Race Theory, emphasizing its real implications in education. He also highlights the tension between free expression and progressive values, shedding light on the complexities of race and class in today’s discussions.
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Smith College Incident
- Michael Powell interviewed Smith College faculty about an illiberal trend in education.
- Most agreed but only three would speak publicly, highlighting a chilling effect on open discourse.
Shifting Cultural Landscape
- Yascha Mounk notes a shift in U.S. compared to Europe, where people frequently express fear of speaking their minds.
- He contrasts this with his experience at Harvard years ago, where diverse views were openly debated.
Texas Anti-CRT Laws
- Michael Powell discusses Texas laws restricting how teachers discuss potentially uncomfortable historical topics.
- He notes teachers' fears due to potential penalties for causing discomfort, even when discussing factual history.