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Author: Brian Fung

Study reveals political views among academia

There are marginally more moderates than liberals among college academics, according to a recent study of the political beliefs of college professors presented at a Harvard University symposium on Oct. 6. The survey was conducted by Neil Gross, assistant professor of Sociology at Harvard University, and Solon Simmons, a professor at George Mason University. They analyzed data concerning 1,417 professors from post-secondary institutions all across the nation. The results showed that 46.1 percent of professors are moderates, 44.1 percent are liberals and conservatives are in the minority with 9.2 percent.

According to Gross, the results were unexpected because of the common perception that professors are "not only liberals, but many are quite radical in their beliefs."

The lack of conservative teachers alarms Professor Lawrence H. Summers, a speaker at the symposium who said that "the lack of diverse perspective" is a problem because it does not provide progressives the opportunity to "sharpen and develop their arguments.
- The New York Times


S. Carolina gives key, election hook to Colbert

Stephen Colbert brought his newly initiated presidential campaign to his home state on Oct. 28 to garner support from the students of the University of South Carolina, though his quest to gain entry to the state's ballot ultimately failed. Colbert inspired much excitement and screaming from the large crowd even though he only spoke for five minutes.

"He would be the best president ever," said Robbie Munsey, a second-year elementary education student. "In seriousness, probably not, but it's a good idea."

The mayor of Columbia, Bob Coble, gave Colbert the key to the city and declared Oct. 28 "Stephen Colbert Day."

Colbert's presidential dreams, however, were dashed on Nov. 1 when South Carolina's Democratic Party decided to deny his wish to be put on the primary ballot. Colbert responded to the news with his usual caustic wit.

"Why! Why don't you want me in your race?" he asked on Nov. 1. "Fine, it's your loss, Democrats."
- The Daily Gamecock


Chief Illiniwek thwarts NCAA ban in Illinois

Fans welcomed back their controversial mascot, Chief Illiniwek, at the homecoming celebrations at the University of Illinois on Oct. 27. Chief Illiniwek has not appeared at a public event since February due to pressure from the NCAA to remove Indian mascots because of discrimination and racial stereotyping. Chancellor Richard Herman lifted the ban on Chief Illiniwek for the homecoming parade, claiming that the NCAA policy only affected athletic events.

"The university values free speech and free expression," the university said in a statement, "and considers homecoming floats, decorations, costumes and related signage all representations of such personal expression." The decision seemed to be supported by most of the college community. There were no protesters, and most fans were wearing some form of Chief Illiniwek paraphernalia.

Students understand that their mascot is controversial, but are confused about what the administration's stance is on the issue.

"To me it is a very honorable and loyal symbol," said senior Haley Beenenga. "I love the chief and I wish it was still here, but I also understand how it can be offensive.
- The New York Times