Universities were established as hubs for knowledge and innovation, and for centuries have been seen as such. Higher education spaces have always been the heart of intellectual and social advancement, focusing not only on streamlining science, technology and business, but also facilitating the sharing of knowledge for societal benefit.
In recent years, higher education has seemed to stray from its public mission, increasingly functioning as a corporate enterprise rather than a social institution. As seen at our own University as well as nationwide, research priorities tend to bend toward profit-based initiatives.
Higher education has historically shaped the culture and moral fabric of society, from civil rights movements to war protests. College campuses should serve as microcosms of democracy, offering space where ideas emerge and collide. Social efforts should be birthed from universities, not silenced for fear of repercussions or financial loss.
Recent political movements from universities such as Harvard, Columbia and UC Berkeley have seen large-scale protests with success in stirring social conversation. The increase of dissenting voices due to political pressure, fear of controversy or donor influence causes rise for concern.
Higher education spaces have the opportunity to fuel social discourse more effectively than any other place in the country. Students are exposed to new ideas, disciplines and contrasting viewpoints daily — an environment many may never experience again.
In recent years, however, universities have not adequately supported students in these initiatives, focusing instead on reputation-advancing, economically sound pursuits, therefore losing the environment that once fostered social progress.
Yes, colleges and universities should prioritize technology and science-driven research, as Clemson has in its “Clemson Elevate” strategic initiatives surrounding artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and data science. And yes, students engage in social discourse on campus; however, social-based intellectual advancement is no longer sufficiently prevalent.
Higher education institutions have lost their influence as leaders in social discourse on a national scale in pursuit of economic gain and recognition. It’s time to realize the value in social innovation and advancement as well as technological progress, and this innovation is needed to progress as a society — colleges should be the place to do it.
Kylie Tutterrow is a senior political science and communication major from Spartanburg, South Carolina. Kylie can be reached at [email protected].
