It seems tremendously silly to criticize the scarcity of conservatives in academia while simultaneously dissuading conservatives from pursuing the education necessary to attain such positions. What other outcome can you realistically expect? Of course, this paradoxical stance has significant implications for the academic landscape and the broader societal discourse. Conservatives would be wise to reconsider their position on the matter, and this is especially true if conservatives care anything about the words of Thomas Jefferson when he said, “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be.“

Historically, conservatives held a dominant voice in academia, shaping educational policies and curricula. Today, conservatives are a minority in many academic institutions. However, we need to be honest with ourselves and note that this change is largely driven by the conservative movement’s own rhetoric and actions that discourage young conservatives from pursuing higher education. In other words, it is a self-inflicted wound.

The aversion to academia within conservative circles is not a recent phenomenon. Over the past few decades, there has been a growing sentiment among conservatives that higher education institutions are bastions of liberal ideology. I can’t help but quesiton where this started or why it perpetuates. Despite the numerous conservative university options, this perception has led to skepticism of academic environments, culminating in discouraging conservative youth from seeking higher education at all. However, this avoidance has really only exacerbated the underrepresentation of conservatives in academic roles, furthering the cycle of the ideological imbalance often complained about on both sides of the political aisle.

Of course, while the solution is rather simple, it seems that promoting the necessary balance has been largely avoided. However, I would argue that reintroducing conservatives into academia is crucial for several reasons. For example, we know that a diverse academic environment fosters a richer exchange of ideas, promotes critical thinking, and reflects the plurality of thought that exists in society. Logically, academic discourse risks becoming a liberal echo chamber without a conservative presence, lacking the rigorous debate necessary for intellectual growth.

If conservatives want to address this imbalance, they need to reassess their stance on education. It is absolutely essential to recognize the value of higher education and its role in shaping future leaders and thinkers. Hence, encouraging conservative youth to pursue higher education is a critical step. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily require attendance at liberal universities. Instead, conservatives could steer their youth toward institutions that align with their values, such as one of the many conservative universities that offer robust academic programs within a framework of conservative principles.

More importantly, conservative leaders and influencers need to shift their narrative. Instead of portraying higher education as inherently liberal and hostile, they need to highlight the opportunities for conservatives to excel and influence within these institutions. By doing so, they can inspire a new generation of conservative scholars who are well-equipped to engage in and contribute to academic discourse.

Another practical approach might be to support and expand conservative student organizations within universities. These groups provide a supportive community for conservative students, helping them navigate academic environments and fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, establishing mentorship programs that connect students with conservative academics and professionals can offer guidance and encouragement.

That said, conservatives should also reevaluate their position on funding education and realign it with Foundational understanding. Thomas Jefferson clarified that the government was to fund education, not control it. In fact, in 1786, Jefferson warned George Wythe about the importance of public education to prevent the rise of an aristocracy. He said, “Preach, my dear Sir, a crusade against ignorance; establish and improve the law for educating the common people. Let our countrymen know that the people alone can protect us against these evils, and that the tax which will be paid for this purpose [education] is not more than the thousandth part of what will be paid to kings, priests, and nobles who will rise up among us if we leave the people in ignorance.” Wise words from a wise man!

However, such funding shouldn’t stop there. For example, funding and supporting conservative think tanks and research initiatives within universities can also help balance the ideological scales. Avoidance merely feeds the imbalance. However, by promoting scholarly work that reflects conservative viewpoints, these institutions can enhance the visibility and credibility of conservative ideas in academia.

Again, the irony of conservatives lamenting their underrepresentation in academia while, at the same time, discouraging educational pursuits among their youth is just silly. If you want conservatives in academia, you’ll need to try a different approach. Conservatives can reclaim their place in the academic sphere by simply promoting a more balanced view of higher education, encouraging conservative students to pursue academic careers, and supporting conservative initiatives within educational institutions. Of course, this reintegration is not only beneficial for conservatives, but it’s essential for fostering a more diverse and dynamic academic environment that also ensures that our nation remains one of innovation and balanced progress.

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