Sonia Stolar | Contributing Writer
In a tense political climate, political discussions shouldn’t shut down, even within the classroom.
I recently looked through a Rate My Professor page of a journalism professor whose class I am about to take. The mention of his political views voiced during class is used as a justification for a 1.0 quality rating in one of the reviews.
The silent requirement for objectivity seems to be firmly attached to the job of an educator. Though, as I began reflecting on how politics are intertwined with my daily life — I am starting to notice their indelibility from college life as well.
I’ve attended classes led by immigrants, whose first language is not English. I’ve sat at desks with a view of female educators, whose presence at an educational establishment would not have been welcomed three centuries ago. I’ve listened to lectures that battled discriminatory bills and demeaning governmental agendas.
The list of miracles that march against forgotten policies or prejudiced perspectives that are currently being pushed into the mainstream goes on and on.
The diversity of minds running into each other within the four walls of a classroom is a political statement in itself. Thus the sheer idea of excluding discussions that involve politics seems outrageous.
The imminence of a high probability that an opinion you will hear could harm the ideology you affiliate with is always present. However, the exclusion of the ability to share opinions disrupts the essence of FIU’s mission of collaborative engagement.
After all, college is an environment that seeks out critical and globalized thinking.
Even the professors should not fall short to let their own thoughts infiltrate lectures and class discussions.
The inherent bias being replaced with objectivity must be a standard practice when grading papers. Yet, the opportunity of including a political statement should not be discouraged.
Generally, faculty and students alike are allowed to practice their rights to free speech in academic establishments. While there are limitations for expressions of treason, controversies unrelated to class, etc.— these limitations apply in other settings and are a common practice.
Thus, legally conversations on politics are protected by the First Amendment.
Ideas and opinions, which oppose our beliefs — challenge us, let us go beyond what is familiar and allow the formation of a multi-dimensional viewpoint. Besides this teaches us how to defend our own or take criticism and analyze our values.
Politics are a part of our everyday lives, visible in the smallest of details. Prices in grocery stores, clothing trends, dominant language in one’s neighborhood and more.
Students must grow more open to the prospect of current affairs, policies and events debated and picked apart in class. It mustn’t be seen as a negative aspect that brings points down on an educator’s Rate My Professor.
Staying in touch with politics, which will creep into one’s routine one way or another — is to be interpreted as a pro, not a con.
Creating an environment where such conversations are welcomed is a step towards FIU’s vision and the confirmation of the university’s values.
To take politics out of the classroom is to dissociate students from what the real world entails.
On the other hand, providing space for political views and discussions to be voiced and mingled — is an assessment of how the world really works.
About Post Author
