Constructive Discussion or Polarizing Attacks? An Analysis of Reactions to Carey's End of College Proposition

• In Event: Roundtable Session 3
  In Roundtable Session: Philosophy and the Future of Higher Education

Abstract

Kevin Carey’s recent book The End of College: Creating the Future of Learning and the University of Everywhere has prompted heated discussion within the scholarly community and general public. At times the discussion has been constructive in nature, and at other times it has broken down into polarized positioning and even attacks. This paper explores the literature pertaining to reactions to Carey’s proposition, and shares findings of a content analysis of reader comments made in response to a New York Times essay authored by Carey based on his book. The results show there is much work to be done in promoting constructive discussion around tough topics, while softening polarizing positions and eliminating the use of attack language.

Author

• Kris Windorski, Michigan State University