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| Professor Dana Cloud |
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| Written by aezenner | |
| Tuesday, 18 April 2006 | |
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Mr. Horowitz portrays Professor Dana Cloud as an “anti-American radical” who “routinely repeats the propaganda of the Saddam regime”; along with all the other professors in his book, Mr. Horowitz accuses her of the “explicit introduction of political agendas into the classroom.” (93, 377) For another perspective on Professor Cloud, here is a letter written by one of her students: To the Editor: Let's get two things straight before we begin. I am a fervent capitalist and extremely conservative, so no one can say I'm writing this for any reason except out of my absolute admiration for Dr. Cloud. And before anyone dismisses me as a young, easily impressionable college kid, I'm 43 years old and the mother of children older than many of you reading this. With that said, I would like to go on record in saying that Dana Cloud is one of the finest teachers I have had the joy to encounter during my college experience. It is painfully and pathetically obvious that Mr. Horowitz did not have the intellectual honesty nor the journalistic integrity to interview any of Dr. Cloud's students before writing his hit piece. I rather strongly disagree with some of Dr. Cloud's positions, but while I was her student, I felt completely comfortable stating my opinions in class, regardless of whether I agreed with her or not. [emphasis added] Dr. Cloud did what a good educator is supposed to do: she provided a forum for an open and lively debate of ideas. She encouraged everyone to give their opinions. She provided materials that were thought-provoking, which, as far as I understand it, is the very point of going to college. As a person, I find Dr. Cloud delightful. As an educator, I find Dr. Cloud exemplary. One of the 101 most dangerous professors? Only if you think a professor who is unfailingly open and honest is dangerous. I may not agree or even like some of Dr. Cloud's political positions. But she is my fellow American and has the right to express her beliefs. And I point out again, that as an educator, she never forced her beliefs on anyone, never tried to "indoctrinate" in the classroom. She is an intelligent, vibrant, and wonderfully effective educator, and I pray that this situation serves as a springboard for people to discuss the vital issues of civil rights and freedom of speech. I will be horrified if Dr. Cloud is damaged by the obviously slanted piece done by Mr. Horowitz. With all honesty, there are only four professors I have had who truly stand out in my mind as wonderful teachers after 122 hours of college. Dr. Cloud, without one second's hesitation, is the top of those four and I consider it an honor to speak for her publicly. [emphasis added] “PH” Senior, Corporate Communication Tags: |
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