Given the ideological vitriol that’s accompanied recent discussions regarding free speech on college campuses, Carls who attended the first convocation of 2019 might have expected a few rhetorical fireworks. What they heard instead was a nuanced analysis of a multifaceted subject, and an encouraging word about the potential of authentic dialogue.
Political philosopher Sigal Ben-Porath’s talk, based on her book Free Speech on Campus, revolved around the idea that while First Amendment rights are unassailable in the public square, on campus an egalitarian search for knowledge is paramount. In practice, this means that bold expression be both rigorously defended and, to ensure inclusion and intellectual risk taking, prudently monitored on a case-by-case basis. “Universities and colleges are institutions with aims that go well beyond the general goals of a democratic republic and it makes sense for them to be organized and managed based on additional principles,” writes Ben-Porath, a professor of education at the University of Pennsylvania, where she also chairs the Committee on Open Expression.
Ben-Porath believes that it is incumbent on colleges and universities to ensure that community members are safe from harassment and discrimination. But she stresses that this commitment is neither a form of political correctness nor an endorsement of forced civility. Instead, she argues, academia is uniquely positioned to provide opportunities for brutally honest interactions that, when they are honored in an atmosphere of mutual respect, allow for tolerable discomfort, legitimate disagreement, and, yes, even compromise.
Not coincidentally, Ben-Porath’s was the first of three convocations held during winter term that were attended by Carleton faculty and staff members and students who are participating in a dialogue pilot program. After each presentation, cohort members join in facilitated conversations that are designed to engender good listening, foster open-mindedness, and invite difference. As a result, issues that are often distorted to divide and conquer—such as free speech, climate change, and bridging political difference—become opportunities for growth and learning.
Comments
I'm impressed by the educational philosophy reflected by following sentence from Carleton's Mission Statement:
"The College works to embody the values of freedom of inquiry and expression and is vigilant in protecting these values within a culture of academic integrity, civil deliberation, and ethical action."
This is a very important topic. I am curious if Carleton has considered adopting the Chicago Principles, especially as it pertains to the decision-making process regarding convocation offerings.
Thanks.
Matthew, I checked in with the president's office to get an answer to your question. Carleton's policy and values are quite consistent with the Chicago Principles. But because our own policy is so strong and longstanding, at this point we are standing by what we already have in place rather than adding another layer of language by adopting the very similar Chicago Principles. This page outlines our current process for selecting convocation speakers.