Stanford University Faces Criticism Over Controversial Writing Courses

Stanford University has come under fire for a mandatory course that is said to promote anti-ICE views, racial identity politics, and even features an all-male drag show. This has raised eyebrows among several influential education watchdog groups.

The writing courses, part of Stanford’s Writing and Rhetoric Requirements, are designed to enhance critical thinking, research, and persuasive writing skills. However, some of these courses have been criticized for their content. Campus Reform has pointed out that many of the available writing courses are raising concerns.

One course, titled “Language, Identity and Power,” aims to delve into various intersections involving politics, education, and media, among other topics. The course description suggests a focus on globalization, immigration, and technological advancements.

Another course, “Our Future is each Other: Collaborative Rhetorics,” includes essays about the all-male drag ballet troupe known as Ballet Trocadero de Monte Carlo. The course content is described as addressing the diversity of cultural practices.

Defending Education, an organization advocating for educational transparency, pointed out that the coursework reflects a need for change in higher education. Sarah Parshall Perry, the vice provost for the organization, remarked that Stanford seems to be moving towards social experimentation and identity politics rather than rigorous education standards.

Perry’s comments drew attention to the peculiar mix of courses being offered, some of which seem to prioritize discussions around identity over essential writing and rhetorical skills. This raises questions about what the core objectives of higher education should be.

In another writing class, “Rhetoric as Witness,” students engage with topics like the murder of George Floyd and the significance of documenting eyewitness accounts in various contexts, such as Gaza or during ICE raids.

Attempts to reach Stanford for comments on the controversy have been met with silence.

Critics like Reagan Dugan of Defending Education emphasized that prioritizing topics like drag ballet over critical communication skills may ultimately harm students. As the demand for strong writing and speaking abilities grows, the focus seems misaligned, leaving some to wonder what the future holds for Stanford students.