Imagine walking through Harvard Yard on a crisp spring morning, where traditions dating back to 1636 meet the curiosity of global scholars. Harvard's Charles H. Carswell Professor of East Asian Languages and Civilizations, Peter K. Bol, recently received the 18th Special Book Award of China and shared candid reflections on why academia still inspires him and why it faces fresh headwinds today.
For Bol, the magic of Harvard isn't just its storied legacy. He believes the real joy of teaching and igniting curiosity exists at universities everywhere. Harvard's dual devotion to pioneering research and committed teaching fuels discoveries in science, medicine and beyond.
Yet Bol warns of a growing climate of skepticism toward liberal education in the United States. He points to a June 23 ruling by a Boston federal judge that blocked a policy aimed at barring foreign nationals from studying at Harvard. This episode illustrates the fraught debate over global talent and academic freedom. Bol argues that institutions must not isolate themselves and stresses that openness to diverse ideas and students is essential for breakthroughs.
Drawing on Harvard's resilience surviving wars, pandemics and societal shifts since before the United States existed, Bol remains optimistic. He notes that challenges come and go and a strong university learns, adapts and emerges even stronger. For a new generation of global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers, his message is clear: robust education systems thrive on inclusivity, rigorous research and the relentless pursuit of knowledge across borders.
As universities worldwide navigate political pressures and evolving missions, Bol's insights remind us that the heart of academia beats strongest when it embraces diversity in thought, people and purpose.
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Professor Peter K. Bol of Harvard on academia and current climate
cgtn.com
