Definitions of the Situation (Malik Speaking)
				Source		MAIN PATH: Dee
							Dee

We all agree that the white students shouldn't have said what they said, but we can't agree on any broader definition of the situation. Each of us has political notions and assumptions about society that incline us to adopt a particular description of what happened. Our descriptions are loaded with assumptions. And depending on the description we use, we tend strongly toward different explanations and solutions to the problem.

If we take Ann's view, we ought to concentrate on reforming conditions at the university. If we take Fred's view, we ought to look at the character of the individuals involved and perhaps the admissions policy on affirmative action. If we take Vera's view, we ought to look at the larger society and try to change the structure of power and privilege. I think we'll be coming back to this. We can't escape our assumptions so easily.

President Dowell says the administration is considering adopting a speech code that would define certain language as "hate speech" and establish punishments ranging from a reprimand to expulsion. Anybody got thoughts on this?

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