Institutional Chaos And The Inspired You

When educational institutions are infiltrated by ideologues that dogmatically preach their opinions, without room for discussion or debate, the educational system itself loses its strength.

This is particularly relevant to the university system, where free thinking and a range of opinions should all be open to critique in a marketplace of ideas. The calving off of certain topics from discussion – those that are shielded from scrutiny – creates ‘sacred cows’ of often controversial sections of discourse that should be openly discussed.

In my experience with the university system, I studied under both the philosophy and art faculties of a well-known university. One of these faculties fostered an environment where even the most controversial societal issues were open to discussion. Nothing was off-limits. The only stipulation was that arguments be presented in a way that allowed them to be critiqued and debated. It was, in essence, the most free-thinking and academically valuable environment one could hope for.

The other faculty, the art school, was a stark contrast. From day one, it was clear that the institution held a particular worldview that was not open to challenge. This stifled debate and pushed students—and some faculty—into self-censorship, for fear of conflict, job loss, or poor academic results.

However, beneath all the squawking at people who dared to step even slightly out of lockstep with the institutions perspective, there was a glimmer of hope. There were teachers who risked ridicule (and their jobs) —Teachers who defied the abandonment of logic, maintained their integrity, and taught students how to inspire themselves, despite the surrounding institutional chaos.