CLASSROOM POLITICS: Free Speech or Learning Hindrance for Students?
Chris Bennett
Issue date: 8/22/07 Section: Opinion
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Paquin was the global studies instructor at the university and had previously won the faculty of the year award in 2006, but this wasn't enough to stop Paquin's dismissal. Paquin was fired, according to the university because the institution had grown a "discomfort" with him and his teaching styles, according to a report by insidehighered.com. Yet, many students and Paquin himself cite that the reason he was fired was his position against capitalism.
Yes, that's right. Paquin is a no-good, ration-liking, missile-selling, red-wearing commie! Hmmm, maybe that's a bit too far, but he is against "our" political ideals. But isn't that what college is about; challenging the status quo to ensure a better future. If this isn't the point of college then why am I still here trying to get a Master's degree.
Upon first seeing this story I was a bit conflicted. I support free speech, whether it be vocalized or in symbol form. I have no problem if you have a Bush bumper sticker on your suitcase or an upside down flag in your office window, because that is your personal space.
Yet, I know what it is like for a student to be bombarded with political opinions in the classroom. If I had a nickel for every antiwar comment that had no relation to the topic I heard in an English class, I'd be feeding the poor with nickel soup. I am not a war supporter, but I expect my instructors to be able to focus their attention on their subject while I'm in class.
Yet, this professor's subject is global studies, and I think that the idea of capitalism and its pros and cons is fair game for such a topic.
The point is this: there is a delicate balance between free speech and responsibilities in the classroom and as the American public becomes more politically active, the line between appropriate and inappropriate blurs.
So, when does free speech and the exchanging of political ideals hinder the education in a classroom? Well, like I said earlier, that's for you to decide.
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