The Image Problem, Redux
Crimson columnist Stephen W. Stromberg has a smart take on the latest Summers controversy, his remarks on Native Americans and genocide. Like me, Stromberg finds the latest remarks less objectionable on paper than would merit the angry reactions they have prompted. I think it has something to do Summers' high-handed manner of speech; Stromberg argues that people are just so irritated with Summers now, they're quick to be offended.
(A possible flaw in this argument: the Native American conference took place last September, and participants were ticked off at the time.)
Stromberg suggests that one solution is for Summers and Mass. Hall to be more forthcoming with information generally.
Key quote: "Releasing everything—meeting notes, administrative documents, memos, you name it—isn't just in the best interests of the Harvard community, but of the president's office, too. And this doesn't just apply to potential scandals. Students and Faculty often feel out of the loop in Allston decision-making, the curricular review, shakeups in administration. ...They complain that communication between Mass Hall and the rest of the University community often comes in the form of press releases...."
It's a smart piece and well-worth reading.
And if I may add my two cents: Summers should make it a policy not to speak to journalists off the record or on background. It would befit his office, and diminish the air of secrecy and manipulation that surrounds his presidency.
