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OPINION: Americans Erroneously Think Colleges Are Intolerant to Conservatives [1]

['This Content Is Not Subject To Review Daily Kos Staff Prior To Publication.']

Date: 2023-10-21  

According to a recent study, there is a perception among Americans that college campuses exhibit a greater degree of friendliness towards those with liberal ideologies compared to those with conservative ideologies, particularly in relation to the protection of free speech. This perception is shared by people from many political backgrounds, who believe that individuals with right-wing views encounter less tolerance inside these academic environments.

From an anecdotal perspective, I have found most of the professors I have had in the past are liberal but ensure that conservative ideas are welcomed.

According to the recent survey conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the University of Chicago Forum for Free Inquiry and Expression, a significant disparity exists in the perceived level of freedom to express their views on college campuses between liberals and conservatives. Specifically, the findings indicate that 47% of adults believe that liberals have “a lot” of freedom to express their views, whereas only 20% hold the same perception regarding conservatives.

I found this to be false as well. Students are always permitted to convey their opinions openly. Conservatives may be resistant in light of the fact that their opinions do not generally align with the facts, at least based on the opinions of mainstream Republicans.

It is also true that young adults tend to be more liberal and progressive, which may make conservatives feel uncomfortable conveying their opinions. Colleges are not to blame for this phenomenon.

Some young liberals may be impolite to conservatives and presume that they are all racists, sexists, and bigots. This is not the majority of students, however.

Republicans hold the perception that there is a more pronounced prejudice against conservatives on college campuses. However, Democrats also acknowledge the existence of a disparity, with over 40% of Democrats asserting that liberals are able to express their opinions without hindrance on campuses, while roughly 30% of Democrats believe the same is true for conservatives.

The exposure to other ideas and ideologies is a crucial aspect of the college experience. However, it is important to acknowledge that the relative lack of popularity among young people for conservative beliefs cannot be attributed to any fault on the part of colleges. Conservative students may have a sense of unease while engaging in discussions over their perspectives, particularly in instances when they are aware of the prevailing disagreement among their peers. This statement does not constitute an indictment on the colleges.

It is noteworthy to acknowledge that the prevalence of liberal ideologies among academics may be attributed to the tendency for individuals with advanced degrees to align with left-leaning political perspectives. ​

In my own opinion, the rationale for this observation might be attributed to the fact that policies aligned with left-leaning ideologies often possess a greater abundance of empirical data substantiating their efficacy.

In sum, overall, nothing is stopping conservative students from speaking their minds.

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