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: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 31 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 institutions of classical education. They launched a fierce backlash, attempting to protect the purity and integrity of classical education from the modern encroachment of identity politics.

The debates that ensued were intense, polarizing, and often acrimonious. Scholars, educators, and policymakers engaged in heated discussions, each passionately advocating their respective positions. The so-called "canon wars" emerged as a focal point of these debates, as individuals and groups clashed over the inclusion of diverse perspectives and the relevance of traditional literature and works of art. The stakes were high, as the outcome of these debates would have a profound impact on the future of education and society.

In the years that followed, the debates surrounding college curricula and identity politics continued to intensify. The political landscape shifted, and new challenges emerged, such as the rise of conservatism, the increasing diversity of the student body, and the challenges posed by technology and globalization. However, the passion and dedication of those on the political Left remained unwavering, as they continued to advocate for a more inclusive and equitable education system that recognizes the diversity of human experiences and promotes social justice.

Today, the legacy of the 1960s political Left's efforts to transform college curricula remains a testament to their commitment to social change. While the debates may have evolved and become more complex, the fundamental principles of inclusivity, diversity, and social justice that they championed continue to inspire and guide educators and activists around the world. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of education and politics, it is essential to remember the lessons learned from the past and to continue working towards a more just and equitable society for all.

In conclusion, the 1960s were a transformative era in the history of American education, as professors, students, and activists on the political Left recognized the power of college curricula to shape the future of society. Their efforts to alter general education requirements and promote greater openness towards marginalized individuals reshaped American culture and politics, leading to a significant backlash from conservatives. Despite this opposition, the political Left's legacy continues to inspire and guide educators and activists today, as they work towards a more inclusive and equitable education system that recognizes the diversity of human experiences and promotes social justice.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781625347602