

The GOP Loves Western Civ
12 snips Apr 15, 2025
Jacob Howland, the provost at the University of Austin, focuses on a curriculum steeped in Western civilization, while Pauline Strong, an anthropology professor at UT Austin, advocates for Indigenous studies. They discuss the rise of conservative-backed institutes promoting Western civics at universities and debate the implications for traditional education norms. The conversation navigates the complexities of identity in curricula and emphasizes the importance of fostering respectful discourse in academia amidst changing political landscapes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Fragmented Curriculum
- Universities lack a cohesive curriculum, resembling branches lopped off a tree.
- Education should answer "Where have you been and where are you going?"
Diverse Educational Experiences
- Students at large universities like UT Austin have diverse educational experiences depending on their major.
- However, they all take core courses covering critical thinking, cultural diversity, and global cultures.
Shifting Campus Discourse
- Jacob Howland recalls openly expressing views in college without self-censorship.
- He contrasts this with the current climate where students and professors feel unable to express opinions freely.