While academics have real expertise in their disciplines, we have no special expertise when it comes to political judgment. I am an English professor. I know about the history of literature, the practice of close reading, and the dynamics of literary judgment. No one should treat my opinion on any political matter as more authoritative than that of any other person. The spectacle of English professors pontificating to their captive classroom audiences on the evils of capitalism, the correct way to deal with climate change, or the fascist tendencies of their political opponents is simply an abuse of power.
I’m not sure it’s an abuse of power as such, because no one takes us seriously when we do crap like that, but it’s an abuse of our vocation; it’s a refusal of our professional responsibilities. And it’s childish.
