As evidenced by the world around us, the influence of politics has continued to rear its ugly head into every facet of our lives. One important facet of life that politics has plagued for us all is the classroom. Whether you’re pro-Trump or not, the issue of politics tends to underscore many intellectual conversations that take place here on our own campus.
While students have always been encouraged to voice their political opinions, there is a fine line that professors must tread when it comes to voicing their opinions. With Hofstra having an evidently more liberal than conservative student body, it has become a hot topic as to whether or not professors should be allowed to express their political opinions.
With the amount of interconnectivity that our world experiences between social media and the news, the influence of politics is practically inescapable. Every day there is another headline about a new controversial action taken by President Trump.
With Hofstra’s continuing dedication to cultivating active and responsible citizens in us all, I feel that professors should be allowed to voice their political opinions, no matter how offensive they may be.
The silencing of professors can prove to be dangerous not only to Hofstra’s reputation, but also to the student body. How can this generation be challenged by new thought when the previous generation is suppressed and silenced from speaking their minds? How can Hofstra live up to its reputation of cultivating excellence if those who are expected to lead can’t speak their minds?
While expressing pro-Trump sentiments at Hofstra isn’t exactly the most popular thing to do, it’s still imperative to throw those ideas in the ether, as it exposes students to new ideas and challenges them to sharpen their wits and strengthen their arguments.
Although it may seem that I’m expressing pro-Trump sentiments, my argument stands for the opposite side of the political spectrum as well.
While Pro-Trump professors should take the time to voice their opinions and explain why they support such a politically controversial man, the predominantly liberal population here at Hofstra also should have the chance to voice their anti-Trump sentiments.
This political cycle has demonstrated how divided as a nation we have become—be it by race, ethnicity or class. As Hofstra welcomes students and professors from all walks of life, it is imperative to conduct these conversations in the classroom to expose not only students, but also professors to opposing sides of the spectrum and potentially reach a middle ground in a nation already divided.
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