University Centers for Rational Alternatives

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The University Centers for Rational Alternatives (formerly known as Coordinating Centers for Democratic Opinion[1]) were American university groups that aimed to bring together disparate viewpoints in an academic, non-violent manner. The organisation was initially formed by Professor Sydney Hook of New York University following student riots in 1968.[2]

Hook stated that the purpose of these organizations was to support academic freedom and rational inquiry through appropriate means[3] in the aftermath of campus protests[4][5] and a perceived rise in student radical politics. The organisation has spoken out against affirmative action and racial or sex quotas for universities.[6]

Its Columbia University branch had a journal called Measure.[7]

References[edit]

  1. ^ Chomsky, Noam (1971). "In Defense of the Student Movement". Chomsky.info.
  2. ^ "Education: Rational Alternatives". Time. 31 August 1970.
  3. ^ Miles, Michael (1972). "The Triumph of Reaction". Change. 4 (10): 35–36. doi:10.1080/00091383.1972.10568241. ISSN 0009-1383. JSTOR 40161621.
  4. ^ "The Silent Majority". Arizona Republic. 5 March 1969. p. 12.
  5. ^ Chamberlain, John (13 June 1969). "The forces for campus rationality grow". The Muscatine Journal and News-Tribune. p. 4.
  6. ^ Rogers, Ed (11 June 1981). "A New York City University professor told a Senate..." UPI.
  7. ^ Wiemer, Bob (9 November 1991). "When language is drafted to serve a political agenda". Tampa Bay Times. p. 19.