The Academic Jungle by Prof. Cotugno, Ed.D.

The Academic Jungle

by Prof. Cotugno, Ed.D.

Many years ago I was an ill informed Political Science major. I thought that the professors I had would always present the “truth” in a factual manner. How wrong I was. At one time there was a group called the John Birch society. It was an extreme right wing group that was invited on campus to debate a professor. Other professors told us how extreme and radical the “Birchers” were. I was expecting to see the devil on stage. Instead a soft spoken, well dressed man armed with facts and figures stood before me. The liberal professor became enraged, shouting and making personal attacks. I was taken aback. How could this professor whom I admired be so loose with facts in his response?

For the first time I began to question the motives of my teachers. There must be other opinions to be considered. I began to read the National Review and Barry Goldwater’s “Conscience of a Conservative.” My conception of a liberal bias amongst my profs was confirmed the day Kennedy was shot. A student ran into our class to announce the shooting. The professor of the class said, “Those right wing bastards shot him”!

Now I occupy the role of “Professor”. I see my colleagues showing every Michael Moore film that comes out.

I see discussion topics that always portray America as evil in the world. Capitalism is blamed for environmental issues, poverty in the 3rd world and suppression of minorities. A member of the Theology department hung black crepe on her door the day Bush was elected. A Psychologist was moved to anger when a woman detailed her very personal feelings about abortion. In short it is a jungle out there.

To all students I would suggest that they challenge their professors, in a respectful manner, armed with facts not opinions. Many teachers interpret silence as acquiescence. Asking probing questions that force the professor to give at least some consideration to another point of view. But the most important thing is to be informed. Read, read, and read! Read all material on all sides of an argument. Make up your mind after YOU have seen all sides.

To paraphrase Jefferson, a democracy depends on an educated society.

by Prof. Cotugno, Ed.D.

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