Diversity in Colleges Essay - 2682 Words

Traditional Diversity At UC-Berkeley, the course description for Politics and Poetics (Fall Course 2002) stated that conservative thinkers are encouraged to seek other sections. (SAF 1). Though the instructor later apologized for the description, this is the sort of encouragement conservative-minded students are greeted with many times during their college experience. It is said that in class, students are taught that their country -- and Western culture in general -- is tainted by racism, sexism, and oppression (Stearn 2). Outside class, students are forced into consciousness-raising exercises that heighten tensions and bolster radical pressure groups (Stearn 2). For example, at Brown University, an organized coalition of†¦show more content†¦The hope for cultural improvement in problem areas, even on a global scale, lies primarily in the critical forums of our nations classrooms, where young, motivated minds are preparing to jump into the world with both feet. Because academic success is measured not only by what is learned, but also by what is taught, it is imperative that all perspectives be provided (Fish 3). Intellectual diversity is used to describe those differing perspectives. Once used to portray an educational tradition that celebrates and nurtures human freedom, it is now used to name exactly what is lacking in Liberal Arts programs today. Further immersed in this controversy, the word liberal in liberal arts has been embraced by both ends of the political spectrum, and can scarcely be uttered without turning the conversation into a verbal duel between conservative reformists on one side, and liberal traditionalist on the other. However clear we present the term, the thrust and parry continues as the nations leading academia and political activists attempt to separate liberal education from an education that indoctrinates students in the values of political liberalism (Horowitz, In Defense, 3). For the sake of clarity, two distinct sides prevail within our higher education system today. Although the terms â€Å"Republican† and â€Å"Democrat† (referred to herein in as liberal and conservative) may seem inappropriate in the context of academic pursuits, they serve an advantage hereShow MoreRelatedThe Impact Of Diversity On College Campuses959 Words   |  4 PagesDiversity on college campuses has increased, which has let people assume that racism decreased and acceptance expanded gradually, however minorities still face prejudice and discrimination. Harvard University presented a research where they gathered college students from 4 particular public universities and questioned them about the social behavior they have experienced or witnessed. In the contrary, they discovered that college students have encountered racist comments or negative facial expressionsRead MoreSocioeconomic Diversity Of Colleges And Universities Essay1830 Words   |  8 Pagestheir stu dent body. The purpose of colleges and universities is to provide students with the education and experience they need to succeed after graduating as well as expand their thoughts and perspectives. Thus, they must create and maintain a similar environment in which students will live and work in the future. Although diversity has been emphasized as a priority for many schools, socioeconomic diversity is often disregarded. However, socioeconomic diversity plays an important role in developingRead MoreCultural Diversity At The California College Of Arts1234 Words   |  5 PagesRunning head: CULTURAL DIVERSITY 1 CULTURAL DIVERSITY 6 Cultural diversity Name Professors Name Institution Date Introduction Cultural diversity has impacted the American Society and studies as well. It is important to encourage students to explore the diversity of culture in America and also understand how culture has changed the landscape. 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One of theRead MoreIssues of Diversity and Commercialization in US College and University Campuses2055 Words   |  8 Pagesand all our heartaches / And all of our poor selfish grief / Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door / and never put on again (Louisa Fletcher) Introduction Unfortunately, notwithstanding poet Louisa Fletchers desire to start over, colleges and universities in the United States will not at any time soon access the Land of Beginning Again. Those institutions must enact meaningful change transitions from where they exist today, and there is much change that is needed. To wit, innovatorRead MoreDiversity Within The United States828 Words   |  4 PagesDiversity can refer to many things all over the world. Diversity can be defined as different statuses at are together collectively. â€Å"Diversity encompasses complex differences and similarities in perspective, identities and points of view among members if an institution. It includes important and interrelated dimensions of human identity such as race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity and expression, socio-economic status, nationality, citizenship, religion, sexual orientation, ability and age.†Read MoreImportance Of Cultural Diversity983 Words   |  4 PagesCultural diversity is when a group of people come together from different parts of the world. College administrators and faculty should make cultural diversity a priority because it connects people that come from diverse backgrounds, which can open their minds to learning about traditions that come from someone elses cultures. Such experiences can also open up new opportunities for careers within their area or overseas. Also, it helps the students become self-aware when making choices amidst difficultRead MoreAffirmative Action: Prejudice in the College Admissions Process941 Words   |  4 Pagesrace in the college admissions process in the case of Fisher v. University of Texas. Since then, affirmative action has become a big issue in the media; however, many people still do not even know what affirmative action is. Affirmative action is a policy to prevent discrimination on the basis of â€Å"color, religion, sex, or national origin.† Overall, it favors minorities that are often discriminate d. It might sound like an excellent policy; however, the use of this policy in the college admissions process