Joseph R. Miller is joined by co-host Leroy Hill and their friends Kevin Briggins and Owen Anderson to talk about Christian education and the influence of progressive politics. Today, they unpack Charlie Sykes’ interview of Wesleyan University President Michael Roth—another Blind Fox—who’s positioned himself as the brave defender of liberal education and academic freedom, Gandalf standing in the gap against the fascist attacks of President Donald Trump.
“President Michael Roth believes he’s Gandalf standing in the gap against the fascist attacks of President Donald Trump. At best, he’s Don Quixote. At worst, he’s Saruman of Many Colours.” — Joseph R. Miller
REFEREN ES
Michael Roth: No Time for Appeasement: A conversation with the president of Wesleyan University
Link to Michael Roth’s X account.
On ‘Day of Trans Visibility’: “What I Learned From My Trans Students”
March 31, 2025 by Michael S. Roth
“I looked then,” says Gandalf, “and saw that his robes, which had seemed white, were not so, but were woven of all colours, and if he moved they shimmered and changed hue so that the eye was bewildered.”— J.R.R Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
Themes
Some of the themes that came out in our discussion are as follows:
Academic Freedom vs. Institutional Control: Explore the tension between the principles of free inquiry in universities and the influence of prevailing ideologies, funding, and accreditation standards.
The Use and Misuse of Historical Analogies: Analyze how historical events and figures (e.g., Nazism, Vichy France) are invoked and debated in contemporary political and academic discussions. Consider the accuracy and ethical implications of these comparisons.
Worldview and Rationality: Examine the concept of differing rationalities and self-referential worldviews, and how these frameworks can lead to the demonization or marginalization of opposing perspectives.
The Role of Universities in Society: Discuss the perceived purpose and direction of American universities, including concerns about ideological homogeneity, the influence of critical theories, and potential shifts in the future.
Freedom of Speech and its Limits: Investigate the nuances of free speech, particularly in the context of university settings, and the debate over what constitutes harassment, intimidation, and acceptable discourse.
The Influence of Progressive Politics on Moral Stances: Analyze the argument that progressive political ideologies are significantly shaping the moral positions and actions of individuals and institutions, sometimes at the expense of traditional ethical frameworks.
Government Funding and Academic Autonomy: Debate the relationship between government funding, academic research, and institutional independence, considering potential implications of funding decisions.
Hypocrisy and Dishonesty in Public Discourse: Identify instances of perceived hypocrisy, dishonesty, and virtue signaling in the arguments presented, and consider their impact on the conversation.
The Definition and Application of "Fascism": Analyze the various ways the term "fascism" is used in the discussion, and evaluate its accuracy in different contexts, particularly concerning government influence and censorship.
Biblical Principles vs. Secular Ideologies: Explore the contrasting frameworks of biblical holiness and secular ideologies in addressing contemporary social and ethical issues, particularly within the context of a Christian university.
“He that breaks a thing to find out what it is has left the path of wisdom.”— Gandalf
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