Peter J. Woolley, Ph.D., Founding Director of the School of Public and Global Affairs at Fairleigh Dickinson University, talks with Steve Adubato about the role of higher education in political and social discussions and the current state of our democracy.
Steve Adubato asks Woolley about the role of higher education in providing a safe, civil, respectful platform for political discussions. Woolley responds saying, “That is the role of universities, to provide that appropriate arena for debate, for argument, and for learning. I think a lot of people would say universities have not done a good job at that, even though their best intentions are to provide that safe space. The safe space is not to protect people from other people’s speech. The safe space is to have the argument in, and to learn from it, and to grow in your ability to debate effectively. Universities I think have erred on the side of safe space rather than on the side of ‘let’s have it out and let’s learn how to do it right’.”
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Higher education plays a crucial role in shaping political and social discourse in society. Steve Adubato, a renowned political analyst and commentator, has provided valuable insights on how higher education impacts these important conversations.
One of the key ways in which higher education influences political and social discourse is through the critical thinking skills it instills in students. By encouraging students to question assumptions, analyze evidence, and consider multiple perspectives, higher education helps individuals develop the ability to engage in thoughtful and informed discussions about complex issues. This critical thinking is essential for fostering a more nuanced and productive dialogue in the public sphere.
Furthermore, higher education also provides students with the knowledge and understanding of key political and social issues. Through courses in political science, sociology, history, and other related fields, students gain a deeper understanding of the structures and systems that shape our society. This knowledge equips individuals with the tools they need to participate meaningfully in political debates and social movements.
In addition, higher education can also serve as a platform for promoting diversity and inclusion in political and social discourse. By bringing together students from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, colleges and universities create opportunities for individuals to learn from one another and challenge their own assumptions. This diversity of thought can lead to more inclusive and representative discussions that take into account a wider range of experiences and viewpoints.
Steve Adubato has highlighted the importance of higher education in fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry. By equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and perspectives they need to participate in political and social discourse, higher education plays a vital role in shaping the future of our society. As we continue to grapple with complex challenges and divisive issues, it is clear that the impact of higher education on political and social discourse will only become more significant in the years to come.
