A University President Speaks Out (with Michael Roth)
May 1, 2025
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Michael Roth, President of Wesleyan University since 2007 and a leading voice in higher education debates, dives deep into the challenges universities face amid political attacks. He discusses the ideological biases in academia and the pressing need for diverse perspectives. Roth also explores how university leaders can maintain neutrality while engaging with controversial issues. Plus, he reflects on elitism in admissions and the importance of fostering democratic values in education. It's a thought-provoking conversation on the future of academia.
Michael Roth emphasizes the necessity of academic freedom in universities to foster essential civil society values amidst political pressures.
He advocates for increased access to higher education for marginalized communities, promoting innovative programs to create opportunities for all.
Roth discusses the need for diverse ideological representation in academia, suggesting affirmative action for conservative viewpoints to balance perspectives.
Deep dives
The Role of Universities in Civil Society
The podcast emphasizes that universities are vital to civil society, where the freedom to think and express oneself is paramount. Educational institutions ought to work with, but remain independent from, government influence, particularly regarding ideas and behaviors. This independence allows universities to foster a thriving environment for academic inquiry and diverse perspectives. The discussion highlights the ongoing importance of protecting the academic freedom that underpins this mission, especially in the face of political pressures.
Challenges Facing College Presidents
Michael Roth discusses his experiences as the president of Wesleyan University and the various challenges that come with that role, especially during times of crisis. He reflects on significant events, such as the economic downturn and incidents of violence on campus, which shaped his presidency and responsibilities. Roth suggests that leading a university requires being both a comforting presence for students and a decisive leader for faculty. He finds satisfaction in teaching alongside administration, believing this helps bridge the gap between faculty and administrative roles.
The Importance of Access to Education
Roth underscores that access to higher education should not be a privilege reserved for the few but rather an opportunity for all, particularly marginalized communities. He argues that while not everyone may choose to attend college, increasing access is essential for allowing individuals to explore their potential and succeed in life. Innovative programs such as college courses in high-poverty high schools are introduced as practical solutions to broaden access to higher education. The goal is to create pathways that allow talented individuals to demonstrate their capabilities regardless of their background.
Navigating Ideological Bias in Academia
There is a recognition of the ideological imbalance within universities, particularly leaning left among faculty and students, and Roth acknowledges the need for more diverse voices. He discusses the implications of this bias for students and the broader educational environment, emphasizing that the hiring processes should be inclusive of varied perspectives. Roth suggests an affirmative action approach for conservative viewpoints to correct the skew towards the left in academia. He believes that fostering a balanced academic discourse is critical for a comprehensive education and for preparing students to engage with a pluralistic society.
Presidential Accountability and Freedom of Speech
The conversation addresses the delicate balance between maintaining institutional neutrality and protecting the values of academic freedom. Roth advocates for the active role of university leaders in endorsing free speech while also allowing students to engage with contentious issues. He critiques the idea of absolute neutrality, arguing that it can lead to a lack of accountability and hinder healthy debate on campus. The aim is to create an environment where all voices can be heard and respected while ensuring that universities uphold their foundational purpose of fostering inquiry and critical thinking.
What is a university president’s role when the government attacks higher education? Wesleyan University President Michael Roth joins Preet to discuss academia’s leftward tilt, what the attacks on universities portend for civil society, and whether remaining “neutral” is a viable option.
Plus, Preet answers questions about ICE agents wearing face masks during arrests and whether an Attorney General needs a law license.
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Show notes and a transcript of the episode are available on our website.
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