Cease, my son, to hear
the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge — Proverbs
19:27
In learning
how to respond to the civilisational culture war, what about students in
universities? Are the institutions of higher education really cauldrons of
radical leftist ideologies? Do they eat conservative students alive? The
answer: Yes and No. It is possible as a conservative to do well in such a
seemingly hostile environment (didn’t the early church thrive in the hostile
first few centuries of Roman persecution?).
This author
is one example: a new Christian when he went to university, his faith grew
dramatically while being in an academic environment which was indifferent, contrary,
and at times, critical to what he believed. His academic performance was
recognised and rewarded.
Yes, it is
possible to ‘survive and thrive’ at university, but keep these points in mind:
1.
Choose your university wisely: If you are a
Christian, make a prayerful decision where you should go. A good reputation in
your chosen major, plus in general studies, is a good place to start.
Convenience and expedience should not be factors; excellence and quality are
the goals. Be led of the Holy Spirit.
2.
Reality: Left-wing progressivism
is the prevailing philosophy in western universities. This is can be found
especially in courses labelled ‘studies’ (e.g. Native American Studies or
African-American Studies or Gender Studies), in social sciences, and in
humanities. Knowing this in advance is good for you; for when you understand a
situation, you are half-way towards a solution (Proverbs 4:7);
3.
Choose your major wisely: Some
university majors are more susceptible to subjective bias than others.
Economics, science, and even politics are more even-handed majors. There are
professors who will teach their subjects objectively, regardless of their
worldview - seek them out;
4.
Find like-minded faculty and students: When you are
in the minority, wisdom decree that you find allies among the faculty and
students who share much, if not all, of your worldview. Such alliances will
prove useful during your studies, especially for support and note-sharing;’
5.
Choose your battles carefully: Don’t be in
the habit or looking for someone to argue with. Chances of changing their minds
are slim and it just wastes time and energy. Only when you must contend
with a progressive should you go out to battle. Also, if you find an honest
progressive who is willing to calmly and patiently listen to an opposing view -
they are rare but worth the dialogue. As the saying goes, keep your gun powder
dry for the battles that really matter;
6.
Self-control: This is part of the
fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). There is something respectable, even noble,
about a person who stays calm and in control, reasonable and respectful.
Proverbs 17:28: Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise:
and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. Once
you lose your temper - you lose. Tantrums are not a mark of authority; they are
the sign of immaturity and will cause you to lose. You will have a better
listening audience if you keep cool. So be prepared, and then calmly, firmly,
and authoritatively state your case.
7.
Know where you stand: If you are
unfairly treated, especially for what you believe, then know your rights. There
are bodies in the university to which you can appeal or from which you can get
arbitration. This can be the case when facing issues of religious freedom,
freedom of speech, or academic integrity. This author recalls an A-average
student who was failed in a subject by a progressivist professor who disliked
her views. The student learned that she had the right of appeal. So that right
was exercised and the student passed with a high mark;
8.
Integrity: Those students who work
and study with integrity will be respected, even if they are conservatives. Do
the right thing: study hard, use the best sources, do quality work, show
passion for what you believe and do. Remember that your minority status can be
an asset, not a liability, because it can spur you on to try harder, think
critically, and come up with great insights. Don’t fall for a ‘victim
mentality.’ This will imprison more than any penitentiary. While you might feel
outnumbered, like a ‘Daniel in the lion’s den’ and a ‘babe in Babylon,’ you
will come forth as gold.
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