Making the Radical University: Identity and Politics on the American College Campus, 1966-1991

In the 1960s, professors, students, and activists on the political Left viewed college curricula as useful sites for political transformation, coordinating efforts to alter general education requirements to foster greater openness toward previously excluded groups. Their work reshaped American culture and politics, prompting a significant backlash from conservatives. Today, these debates have become more politically charged and complex.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 172 pages
Publication date: 26 January 2024
Publisher: University of Massachusetts Press

In the vibrant decade of the 1960s, a profound shift occurred within the realm of academia, as professors, students, and activists on the political Left recognized the immense potential of college curricula as powerful platforms for political transformation. Driven by a shared vision of a more inclusive and equitable society, they united their efforts to reshape the general education requirements at the college level. Their goal was to foster a shift in American thought, embracing greater openness towards individuals who had historically been excluded, such as women, people of color, the poor and working classes, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ community.

The impact of their tireless endeavors was far-reaching, as they reshaped the very fabric of American culture and politics. Their vision for a more inclusive and diverse academic landscape paved the way for a new generation of thinkers and leaders who were committed to challenging the status quo and promoting social change. However, their efforts did not go unnoticed by conservatives, who saw them as a threat to the traditional values and principles of classical education. They launched a fierce backlash, attempting to protect the sanctity of classical education from the modern encroachment of identity politics.

Elizabeth M. Kalbfleisch, in her insightful book "Making the Radical University," delves into the intricate details of how American universities became a battleground for identity politics during the 1960s through the 1980s. Through two compelling case studies at Stanford University and the University of Texas at Austin, Kalbfleisch explores how curricular changes sparked polarizing discussions nationwide, leading to the so-called "canon wars." These debates, which continue to shape the academic landscape today, revolve around academic standards and the complex interplay between identity politics and education.

The political climate has only intensified these debates, making them more politically charged, complex, and contentious. The rise of right-wing movements, the increasing polarization of society, and the growing importance of cultural and social issues have all contributed to the heightened stakes surrounding these discussions. As educators and scholars, we must navigate this complex terrain, fostering open dialogue, promoting critical thinking, and encouraging empathy and understanding among diverse groups.

In conclusion, the 1960s marked a pivotal period in the history of American universities, as professors, students, and activists on the political Left recognized the power of education to shape society. Their efforts to alter general education requirements and promote greater inclusivity reshaped American culture and politics, leading to a new generation of thinkers and leaders who were committed to social change. However, their work also sparked a significant backlash from conservatives, who sought to protect classical education from modern encroachment. Today, these debates continue to shape the academic landscape, and as educators and scholars, we must remain committed to promoting open dialogue, critical thinking, and empathy, as we navigate the complex terrain of identity politics and education.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781625347596