The Crimson reports on the search for a new dean.

Among the names mentioned: Theda Skocpol, David Cutler, and Jeremy Knowles.

But none of these names come without baggage.

Skocpol is considered strong and independent. Ergo, Summers probably wouldn’t choose her.

David Cutler is an economist friend of Summers, which would pretty much eliminate any faculty trust in him.

Jeremy Knowles, the crafty Brit, is extremely competent and reasonably well-liked by the faculty—but then, nobody can trust Knowles.

The Crimson also raises the curious option of Summers appointing himself as dean—apparently there’s precedent for this—a move which would presumably prompt mass hari kari around 02138.

There’s also one piece of hard news in the piece: Drew Faust—whom, I’m told, was offered the FAS deanship by Summers before he offered it to Kirby—has removed herself from the running the second time around.

This is going to be very tricky for Summers, who is promising to consult widely during the search. Of course, Summers always says he’ll consult widely during his searches, and then he goes and chooses the person he wants. (Not that there’s anything wrong with that; it’s probably unreasonable to expect a president to appoint a dean he doesn’t want.)

So if you have any tips for Larry Summers, you can write him at the rather pathetic e-mail, [email protected].

But hey, the way things are going at Mass Hall these days, don’t be surprised if your e-mail shows up in the Crimson….