Conservative Voices in Academic Institutions

Conservative Exclusion from Higher Education

Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas recently addressed a perceived exclusion of conservatives from certain academic institutions. During a discussion held by the Hoover Institute, Thomas mentioned that visiting places like Stanford Law School is challenging for conservative figures.

“I have never been to Stanford Law School,” Thomas stated, underscoring the difficulty in accessing such institutions for individuals with conservative perspectives.

Thomas explained that some academics are intolerant of conservative viewpoints, making certain places inaccessible.

Stanford’s Response

Stanford Law School countered Thomas’ statements, expressing willingness to host him. A spokesperson emphasized that the school regularly invites judicial figures and would welcome Thomas for a discussion on constitutional law.

Incidents with Conservative Speakers

Stanford has faced disruptions during conservative speakers’ visits. When U.S. Circuit Court Judge Kyle Duncan appeared at Stanford for a talk titled “Covid, Guns, and Twitter,” he encountered protests from student groups. These groups tried to block or move the event due to Duncan’s judicial history. Eventually, the session was disrupted by protesters using bullhorns and signs.

This led to an apology from Stanford’s dean and president to Duncan, affirming a stance that while protesting is allowed, obstruction of invited talks violates school rules.

Another Walkout Incident

Three years prior, Texas Solicitor General Kyle Hawkins experienced a similar situation. When Hawkins engaged in a discussion at Stanford Law School, many attendees staged a walkout in opposition to his efforts against DACA.

YouTube’s Role in Conservative Ideology

Clarence Thomas noted YouTube as a crucial platform for conservative ideologies. Without online platforms, opinions shaped by economists like Thomas Sowell may be lost, as universities might not support such views.

Thomas did not mention specific incidents or whether he had received invitations to speak at institutions like Stanford.

Writer Elaine Mallon contributed additional insights into national political discourse.