Christopher Rufo, a conservative activist, is credited with architecting the Trump administration's campaign against Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in higher education. This involved threatening to withhold billions in federal funding from universities and dismantling DEI initiatives. Rufo's ambition extends beyond higher education, aiming for a broader 'counter-revolution' against progressive ideologies.
Rufo advocates for using state power to reshape society, contrasting with those he labels 'classical liberals' who he believes rely too heavily on civil society actions. His approach draws inspiration from Antonio Gramsci's concept of cultural hegemony, focusing on institutional control. He views the takeover of New College of Florida as a model for a nationwide conservative restructuring of public institutions.
Rufo's methods have drawn criticism from various figures, including Cathy Young, Jonathan Haidt, and Steven Pinker. They argue that his approach is unethical, sets a dangerous precedent, and risks unintended consequences. While acknowledging issues with left-wing groupthink, they oppose Rufo's use of state power to enforce ideological change. The article highlights the concerns about jeopardizing academic freedom and research funding.
The article questions whether Trump's narrow victory in the 2024 election truly represents a mandate for Rufo's sweeping cultural changes. Actions taken by the Trump administration, such as purging DEI materials from the military and cutting funding to the National Institutes of Health, are presented as examples of potentially damaging overreach. The potential negative impacts on research, healthcare, and public perception are emphasized.
The article concludes by suggesting Rufo's strategy may prove counterproductive. Attempting to 'entrench' values through intimidation and coercion may have unforeseen consequences. The unpredictable nature of culture and the potential for backlash are highlighted as key considerations.