Eric Kaufmann’s New ‘Centre for Heterodox Social Science’
Oct 20, 2023
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Political scientist Eric Kaufmann discusses cancel culture, academics' need for honest immigration conversations, and challenges in academia. The conversation also covers his personal background, views on wokeness, and navigating the complexities of immigration.
Academics must engage in honest conversations about downsides of immigration to address societal concerns.
Balancing diverse viewpoints and fostering discourse on neglected subjects is crucial for academic freedom.
Deep dives
Eric Kaufman's Transition to the Center for Heterodox Social Science at University of Buckingham
Eric Kaufman, a Canadian academic, has shifted from Birkbeck College University of London to establish the Center for Heterodox Social Science at the University of Buckingham. This move came after facing criticism and pressure regarding his research on societal responses to ethnic and religious diversity. Kaufman's departure aimed to create a platform for more open dialogue and research without limitations imposed by academic orthodoxies.
Challenges of Addressing Rapid Ethno-Religious Changes in Societies
Kaufman's research area delves into the political consequences of demographic shifts due to immigration. He navigates through taboos and debates around cultural anxieties related to immigration and ethnic changes. Identifying legitimate concerns about the pace of change, Kaufman advocates for nuanced discussions on societal transformations, emphasizing the distinction between attachment to one's own group and discriminatory attitudes.
Economic Impacts of Immigration and Public Opinion
A discussion on immigration reveals varying public perceptions influenced by factors beyond personal economic circumstances. While economic class plays a role, ideology, culture, and psychology shape immigration attitudes significantly. Kaufman highlights that education and individual psychological leanings are more predictive of immigration viewpoints than income levels, underscoring the complexities of public opinion in diverse societies.
Navigating Controversial Discussions in Academia at University of Buckingham
Establishing the Center for Heterodox Social Science prompts considerations on maintaining academic freedom while avoiding extremism. Kaufman aims to balance diverse viewpoints within a research framework, steering clear of extreme topics while fostering discourse on neglected subjects. By creating a platform for resource allocation based on research risk and academic integrity, Kaufman envisions a balanced and constructive approach to scholarly exploration.
Quillette podcast host Jonathan Kay speaks with political scientist Eric Kaufmann about cancel culture, switching universities, and why academics need to have honest conversations about the down side of immigration.