By John Peachey, Fall 2008
It might not surprise you to hear that many people here at Alliant support Obama. With the current election looming, I believe there is no excuse for political indifference – as its repercussions affect our life and health, our countries and world, and even our professional practice. While it feels comfortable to be surrounded by likeminded liberal individuals, we unfortunately isolate ourselves from the challenges of contrary viewpoints, which force us to reexamine our positions and argue in their favor. This stagnation often leads to knowing that we believe something, but not why. Thus, respectful arguments help both sides to grow intellectually.
While Alliant University upholds mission statements and courses embracing the merits of diversity, hasn’t anyone ever stopped to wonder, ‘what happened to political diversity?’ If a minority group of conservatives (dare I say, McCainites?) exists at Alliant, could such an environment allow them to speak up without fear of political prejudice? If we ever hope to end the partisanship bickering, my hope is that we can embrace such a group and welcome their challenges through scholarly debates that ultimately enlighten all involved. Benjamin Franklin said it well when he wrote, "Without Freedom of Thought, there can be no such Thing as Wisdom; and no such Thing as publick Liberty, without Freedom of Speech." Calling all conservatives! We need to hear your voices, we want to hear your challenges, and we ought to start a political dialogue here at Alliant!
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