&quote;Radical Academia&quote;? Understanding the Climates for Campus Activists

Take an in-depth look at campus activism in the 21st century with this issue of New Directions for Higher Education.

Campuses have always experienced an ebb and flow of activism, and the recent displays of student activism on American campuses show that protesters remain a vibrant subculture in American higher education. From rising tuition costs to the need to improve and welcome diversity, activists signal a continued restlessness among the nation’s collegiate youth over various issues, expressing their views with a vigor comparable to most periods in American history.

The purpose of this work is to dispel the myths that today''s activists are either apathetic or “radicals” determined on disrupting the “establishment.” It''s also a guide to help higher education practitioners better understand the needs, rights, and responsibilities of campus activists. And, it will help readers understand the best paths to not only allowing student voice, but helping direct that voice toward peaceful and constructive expression.

This is the 167th volume of the Jossey-Bass quarterly report series New Directions for Higher Education. Addressed to presidents, vice presidents, deans, and other higher education decision makers on all kinds of campuses, it provides timely information and authoritative advice about major issues and administrative problems confronting every institution.