CIE Considerations

I was recently informed by the professor of my Philosophy of Race course that the faculty is considering adding The New Jim Crow to the curriculum for a class entitled the Common Intellectual Experience, which is mandatory for all freshman students. This book would be replacing the current section of the curriculum which discusses the Holocaust. I firmly believe that The New Jim Crow needs to be introduced into the CIE  coursework, even if it means not having a conversation about the Holocaust.

The Holocaust is a subject that many students are familiar with. Having studied it on four separate occasions in my academic career thus far, I know my experience is not unlike many others. Students come in to a conversation about the Holocaust with a great deal of base knowledge and although the CIE experience does often push students to more deeply consider the issue, it is nothing new. Talking about the Holocaust initiates discussion on genocide, humanity, and the extreme effects of prejudice. However, it is much more simple to talk about these notions when they are something of the past. In history we first make sure we are detached from the wrong doings in time and space before an open conversation is easily had.

To consider the issues found in a book such as The New Jim Crow would be hugely influential on students. Firstly, the conversation of race is not typically seen in a standard classroom setting. Vague generalizations while studying the civil rights era may be discussed, but if a student does not seek elective courses which cover the topic, is it something they will not learn about. Secondly, being confronted with the realities of racism that still exist today would cause a great impact on many students. Many people do still firmly believe that we now live in a racially just society where inequality has faded and colorblindness is the answer to all. To be blunt, more people need to wake up and any opportunity to proliferate knowledge about race relations in our society should be taken, as there are not many open platforms in which such a conversation can be easily had. Thirdly, introducing such a controversial issue to a group of freshman college students would undoubtedly spark lively debate. It would not be an easy conversation to have, but it would force them to think about their own thoughts and the status of their society. Finally, I believe that if Ursinus College is going to attempt to pride itself on its (minimal) diversity, they should strongly consider introducing subject matter into freshman curriculum that would perhaps eliminate the racial tension on this campus which clearly exists.