edition.cnn.com
Pentagon Orders Removal of "Divisive" Books from Military Academies
The Pentagon ordered military academies to remove books on race, gender, and "divisive concepts" by May 21, creating a committee to review flagged materials, escalating efforts to eliminate DEI content and impacting admissions policies.
- What are the potential long-term implications of this policy on the intellectual climate and educational mission of military academies?
- The policy's long-term effects could include limiting intellectual diversity and critical thinking at military academies. The exclusion of certain topics may hinder the development of well-rounded officers capable of navigating complex global issues. This could also lead to legal challenges and further controversies.
- What are the immediate consequences of the Pentagon's order to remove books on race, gender, and other "divisive concepts" from military academies?
- The Pentagon has ordered the removal of books deemed "incompatible" with its mission from military academies. A committee will review books focusing on race, gender, and other "divisive concepts", with terms like "critical race theory" and "white privilege" flagged for review. This follows a broader effort to eliminate "diversity, equity, and inclusion" content.
- How does the Pentagon's new policy on book removals connect to broader efforts to eliminate "diversity, equity, and inclusion" content within the military?
- This directive escalates the Defense Department's efforts to remove DEI content, impacting curriculum and potentially admissions. The removal of books and cancellation of lectures show the far-reaching consequences of this policy. The Naval Academy's removal of nearly 400 books and the resignation of a West Point professor highlight the policy's significant impact.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the Pentagon's actions as an escalation of efforts to eliminate DEI content, setting a negative tone from the outset. The use of terms like "sequester" and "offending books" contributes to this framing. The headline and lead paragraph emphasize the removal of books, potentially shaping reader perception before presenting a balanced view.
Language Bias
The article uses loaded language such as "divisive concepts," "offending books," and "woke," which carry negative connotations and frame the issue in a biased manner. Neutral alternatives could include "controversial topics," "books under review," and replacing "woke" with a more descriptive term like "supporter of DEI initiatives.
Bias by Omission
The article omits discussion of potential legal challenges to the Pentagon's actions and the broader implications for academic freedom within military institutions. It also doesn't include diverse opinions from within the military on the policy changes. The impact on the educational experience of cadets and the potential for chilling effects on intellectual discourse are not fully explored.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by framing the debate as solely between "merit" and "diversity, equity, and inclusion." It oversimplifies a complex issue by suggesting these concepts are mutually exclusive, neglecting the possibility of integrating them.
Gender Bias
While the article mentions gender ideology as a reason for book removal, it doesn't delve into specific examples of gender bias in the selection process or the potential disproportionate impact on certain groups. More analysis of gender representation in the affected books and the committee's composition would be beneficial.
Sustainable Development Goals
The Pentagon's order to remove books on race, gender, and other "divisive concepts" from military academies directly undermines quality education by limiting access to diverse perspectives and critical thinking materials. Restricting access to information crucial for understanding complex social issues hinders students' intellectual development and ability to engage in informed discussions. The removal of books and cancellation of lectures further restricts academic freedom and open discourse, essential components of a quality education.