Charlottesville
March 7, 2022
I’ve reread this essay several times. It sure seems that what she is talking about is uncivil behavior by fellow students. She complains about being censoring herself after being “attackEd” for her stated position. Surprise, surprise -- tv “news” has made a professional sport of attacking people (not ideas).
My takeaway from her essay is that college kids need to take a chill pill followed by a civility pill. Be curious; don’t be a dick.
I will share something i sent in an email to a group of PKP about this topic (some minor edits to this toolie's original statement). when all else fails, look at your mission statement:
The University of Virginia is a public institution of higher learning guided by a founding vision of discovery, innovation, and development of the full potential of talented students from all walks of life. It serves the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world by developing responsible citizen leaders and professionals; advancing, preserving, and disseminating knowledge; and providing world-class patient care. We are defined by:
Our enduring commitment to a vibrant and unique residential learning environment marked by the free and collegial exchange of ideas;
Our unwavering…
What he said!
When I attended UVA in the 1970's I would characterize most of the students and faculty as somewhat left of center politically and socially. However, at the time the University still subscribed to Jefferson's vision -- "[T]his institution will be based on the illimitable freedom of the human mind. for here we are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate any error so long as reason is left free to combat it".
I remember in classrooms rigorous debate with opposing ideas, sometimes argued with passion, but with both sides listening to the other with respect and demonstrating no personal ill will. I never personally felt intimidated by professors, TA's, or fellow students and never he…