The article traces the history of affirmative action in higher education, noting the significant disparity between faculty and student demographics, particularly concerning race and gender. While student bodies have diversified, faculty representation lags considerably.
The author explores the effects of affirmative action admissions policies, citing studies like Bowen and Bok's "The Shape of the River," which suggest the success of such policies in advancing educational and societal goals for minority students. However, it's noted that despite improvements, significant racial and economic disparities persist.
The article extensively covers major Supreme Court cases involving affirmative action, including Regents of the University of California v. Bakke, Grutter v. Bollinger, and Fisher v. Texas. These cases highlight the legal complexities and ongoing debate over the constitutionality of race-conscious admissions programs. The central question is how to balance the principle of equal opportunity with the goal of creating a more diverse educational environment. The article focuses on the tension between equal protection and academic freedom as constitutional arguments.
The author analyzes the current legal challenges, specifically referencing the Students for Fair Admission v. Harvard case, and predicts the Supreme Court's potential overturn of current affirmative action practices. The author questions the opposition to affirmative action from both white conservatives and some black conservatives, highlighting the historical injustices that necessitate such policies. The conclusion emphasizes that diversity is not a natural outcome but a deliberate societal choice requiring proactive measures.