Are universities still places of free thought, critical thinking and academic debate — or have they become ideological institutions?
In this episode of the Brussels Signal Horizon podcast, mathematician and academic Norman Fenton joins us to discuss his new book and his decades-long experience inside academia.
We discuss how universities have changed, the rise of DEI and ideological conformity, the decline of academic meritocracy, political pressure on students and academics, academic publishing and peer review, foreign funding and influence, and what happens to those who challenge the prevailing narrative.
Fenton also reflects on his own experience during COVID, when challenging the dominant narrative led to professional consequences and ultimately his departure from university life.
Topics discussed:
The ideological transformation of Western universities
DEI and the decline of meritocracy
Free speech and self-censorship on campus
Academic publishing and peer review
Political and ideological influence in research
Foreign funding and influence in universities
Fenton’s experience during COVID
Can universities be reclaimed?
Watch the full conversation and decide for yourself!