During a recent interview on Bloomberg’s “Wall Street Week,” Harvard Professor and President Emeritus Larry Summers expressed concern about the behavior of young elites on college campuses and the lack of leadership from university administrations. Summers warned that America’s enemies could be encouraged by the spectacle and lack of moral contemplation displayed on these campuses.
Summers emphasized the dangerous geopolitical moment the United States faces, citing issues with China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and others. He criticized the protests on college campuses, noting that while some may be driven by idealism, others are influenced by outside forces. Summers was particularly troubled by the demand from Columbia University’s law review to cancel exams and grading due to campus events, viewing it as a sign of decadence.
Summers stressed the importance of restoring focus and values in universities to ensure the future of the country. He called for a return to serious moral contemplation and criticized the current state of affairs on college campuses.