I had a colleague who taught economics. He taught a course that focused on the economic experiences and circumstances of women. He invited students to explore possible explanations for differences in patterns of employment and income among men and women. In doing so, I believe that my friend took on a great challenge and exposed himself to risks.
Certainly, many students came to his class with strong opinions. Some may have believed that they already had the answers. Emotions could run high in discussions about sex, race, discrimination, economic inequality, and similar topics. Some students might be quick to malign the motives and character of those who express opinions different from their own.
By all accounts, discussions in my colleague’s classroom remained polite and productive. I heard no stories of loud voices, name calling, or students running to the dean to complain that professor had allowed expressions of opinion that they found offensive.
I admired my colleague for his courage. I admired his skill in moderating discussions of controversial topics.
My colleague told me that students sometimes approached him after the end of the course. After students had turned in their last papers, written their last examination, and received their grades, they asked him: “Where do you stand on these questions?” My friend took pride in his success in leading students through the study without revealing himself.
I have met other professors who also claim that they can hide their points of view from their students. I do not think that I can do that. I am not convinced that I should try.
If you study with me, I think you will be able to see which arguments persuade me more. I try to strike a balance, neither hiding what I believe nor abusing my position in the classroom by broadcasting my opinions too loudly. I want to show you the range of perspectives that is possible. I want you and your classmates to explore that range freely. I want you to draw your own conclusions. I want to do all that I can to assure you that you can disagree with me without endangering your relationship with me.