vol_25_no_4 by Michigan Review

The Michigan Review The Journal of Campus Affairs at the University of Michigan

Inside

M Campus

New York Times Editor Bill Keller Visits U-M to Discuss Journalistic Responsibility P. 7 Intercultural Competence Proves Incompetent to Rebecca Christy P. 7

Features

What Should be Done with Tiger Stadium? P. 12

U-M’s OSCR Rethinks Alcohol Violations P. 8

10.24.06

Volume

Columns by Amanda Nichols and Adam Paul P. 5

Arts and Culture

Britain’s RSC Visits A2 P. 10

Borat Invades America P. 11

Issue 4

Institutional Discrimination Persists

Despite the former point system’s demise, comparative admission rates of minorities increase By Jonny Slemrod, ‘10

FTER THE U.S. SUPREME COURT struck down the University of Michigan’s point-based admissions system in Gratz v. Bollinger, many have come to believe the Office of Admissions has ceased using racial preferences in the admission process. However, three studies recently published by the Center for Equal Opportunity (CEO), a nonprofit think-tank based in Virginia, reveal that heavy discrimination based on race and ethnicity still exists in undergraduate admissions, as well as in the medical and law schools admission process. With the vote for the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative (MCRI) coming up in a few short weeks, the CEO publications may play a major part in changing the minds of voters who are currently undecided on the issue. According to Linda Chavez, chairwoman of the CEO, the goal of the studies was to determine if anything has changed in the admission process since

Opinion

What the Police Should be Doing & What this Governor’s Race Lacks Editorials, P. 4

xxv,

Panel discussion typifies rancorous divide on race preferences By Lindsey Dodge, ‘10

n anticipation of the upcoming Civil Rights Initiative ballot proposal, the University of Michigan presented a panel discussion on the effects of California’s Proposition 209 and Texas’ Hopwood decision on October 4th. Following the ballot measure and federal court decision, California and Texas ended all programs which granted preferential treatment on the basis of race, sex, gender, and ethnicity. The panel, comprised of

the Gratz decision. Based on information received directly from the University through a Freedom of Information request, the reports claim that not only has the 2003 Supreme Court ruling played no part in lessening admission discrimination by the University, but in fact, this discrimination has increased. The CEO analyzed admissions data from 1999, 2003, 2004 and 2005, and found that among students taking the SAT, the odds of a black applicant being accepted into U-M relative to a white applicant were roughly 25 to 1 in all the studied years except 2005. CEO also used ACT scores in their analysis: During the years of 1999, 2003, and 2004, the odds favoring black applicants dropped, from 48 to 1, 29 to 1, and 24 to 1, respectively. However, 2005 tells quite a different story. CEO’s data shows a significant leap in race-based admissions: the black-to-white ratio of those taking the SAT rose sharply to 70 to 1, while the ratio of those taking the ACT was roughly 63 to 1. The CEO reports also examine medical and law school admissions, and how racial preferences affect the subsequent admission pools. Although the conclusions are different from the under-

graduate report, they are still significant. A black male from Michigan, with no alumni parents, and an equivalent LSAT score and GPA to that of a median white applicant, has a 79% chance of admission compared to a 28% chance for a Hispanic male, a 4% chance for Asians, and a 9% chance for a white student. In 2005, these results fell slightly, but the system still gave an enormous advantage to minorities. In fact, a black male in 2005 still had a 6.8 times greater chance of getting in to U-M’s law school than a white male with the same test scores and GPA. Admissions at the University of Michigan Medical School (UMMS) also have serious racial discrimination, according to CEO. In 2005, a black applicant with an MCAT score of 41 and an undergraduate GPA of 3.6 had a 75% chance of admission, while a white applicant with the same credentials had merely a 10% chance. The University, maintaining its commitment to (racial) diversity, opposes the studies. Julie Peterson, a spokeswoman for the University was recently quoted in See “CEO,” Page 3

Same Old, Same Old? researchers, professors, and activists from the University of Texas at San Antonio, UCLA, and U-M, was purported to provide a glimpse into a postAffirmative Action Michigan, the event quickly descended into a series of often-deceptive tirades against those who oppose affirmative action. By the end of the presentation, one panelist had resorted to calling American Civil Rights Coalition Chairman Ward Connerly a “black mouthpiece” for rich white conservatives, and a “devil masquerading in a white sheet.” She went on to claim that Ward Connerly has told black students that they are “stupid,” that they “don’t belong in universities,” and

capped off her charming biography by comparing Ward to black overseers on the plantations of the antebellum south. Despite the fact that the panelists were discussing policies that granted racial and gender preferences, not once was the word “preference” ever used. Instead, words such as “opportunity,” “diversity,” and “acceptance” were repeated ad nauseum. The panelists all warned that the elimination of racial preferences in higher education would lead to a “resegregation,” of higher education, although this term could be seen as an insult to those who actually endured the effects of segregation in the Jim Crow

south. University of Michigan Graduate Khaled Beydoun, also a graduate of UCLA law school, reported that after Proposition 209, students in his classes “felt they had a license to say whatever they want.” UCLA Sociologist Darnell Hunt echoed this sentiment, which appeared to describe a phenomenon in which generally progressive, liberal, tolerant students turn into racist bigots as soon as there are fewer students of color around. Next to speak was Dr. Susan Kaufmann of the University’s Center for the Education of Women. She essenSee “Prop 209,” Page 8

First two copies free, additional copies $3 each. Stealing is illegal and a sin. (Exodus 20:15)

WWW.MICHIGANREVIEW.COM

P. 2

Page Two

Letters to the Editor: The Michigan Review encourages letters to the Editor. Letters should be no longer than 250 words. The Michigan Review reserves to make minor edits to letters due to space constraints. All letters may be sent to:

mrev@umich.edu

Correction: An October 3rd story on SAPAC’s “Consent is Sexy” program indicated that organizers told participants that only 5% of sexual assaults are reported, while the Department of Justice reported that 38.5% of sexual assaults were reported. The 5% number cited by SAPAC refers only to sexual assaults on college campuses.

AFTER RECENT FEATURE stories on “24 Hours on the Diag” and “How to Have Sex in the Grad Library,” sources close to The Michigan Daily report that a follow up feature on how to have sex in the Grad library for 24 hours is on its way.

affirmative action programs

10.24.06

CLEVELAND PUBLIC schools have decided to begin “age-appropriate” sexual education lessons that begin as early as kindergarten. Well this should solve that whole “tacherstudent” sex problem.

AN ARIZONA STATE university student was seriously injured after jumping out his dorm room window after his friend knocked on his door pretending to be a police officer. The injured student was apparUNIVERSITY ALUM AND ently smoking marijuana in the former President Gerald Ford room at the time. In response, A COURSE ON FLOGGING, was hospitalized restrains, and sexulast week, and unal role play will be derwent numeroffered this year ous medical tests. at the University Damn wolves. of Toronto. “It’s not sexy sex sex, In a related story, where we’re talking there is still no upabout whips and date on Tom Brochains, but we will kaw’s sexual orientalk about whips tation. and chains,” said graduating student A RECENT Robbie Morgan, AU S T R A L I A N 33, who gets props study suggests that for actually using Serpent’s Tooth educated women thephrase “sexy with college desex sex.” grees were more likely to reach orgasm than their less likely University of Michigan officials A BOMB THREAT against counterparts, especially if they have ordered the installation of NFL stadiums was deemed to engaged in sexual activity more bars on all East Quad windows. be a hoax this past week, much than twice a week. In a related to the dismay of Oakland Raidstory, men are now overwhelmer fans. ingly in favor of gender-based The Michigan Review The Journal of Campus Affairs at the University of Michigan

Nick Cheolas Editor-in-Chief

Staff:

Assistant Editors: Brian Biglin, Karen Boore

Andrew Barinov, Steven Bengal, Maria Blood, David Brait, Erin Buchko, Kelly Cavanaugh, Jenni Chelenyak, Rebecca Christy, Tom Church, Jane Coaston, Marie Cour, Lindsey Dodge, Blake Emerson, Danny Harris, Ian Kay, Eun Lee, Anna Malecke, Brian McNally, Miquelle Milavec, Adam Morath, Natalie Newton, John O’Brien, Eddie Perry, Danielle Putnam, Shanda Shooter, Jonny Slemrod, Evan Wladis, Mary Wilcop, Christina Zajicek, Zach Zucker

Webmaster: Shawn Olender

James David Dickson

Michael O’Brien Executive Editor Amanda Nichols Layout Editor Adam Paul Managing Editor

Editor Emeritus:

The Michigan Review is the independent, student-run journal of conservative and libertarian opinion at the University of Michigan. We neither solicit nor accept monetary donations from the University. Contributions to The Michigan Review are tax-deductible under section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code. The Michigan Review is not affiliated with any political party or any university political group. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the editorial board. Ergo, they are unequivocally correct and just. Signed articles, letters, and cartoons represent the opinions of the author, and not necessarily those of The Review. The Serpent’s Tooth shall represent the opinion of individual, anonymous contributors to The Review, and should not necessarily be taken as representative of The Review’s editorial stance. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily those of the advertisers, or of the University of Michigan. We welcome letters, articles, and comments about the journal. Please address all advertising, subscription inquiries, and donations to “Publisher,” c/o The Michigan Review:

The Michigan Review 911 N. University Avenue, Suite One Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1265

10.24.06 Features these studies, it has only itself to blame for taking eight of now, cannot even seriously dispute those conclu“CEO,” from Page 1 months to supply us with the data.” sions. The report released by the CEO is not the Detroit News as saying, “No top university admits based on a racist premise, as many staunch students solely on the basis proponents of affirmative But to believe the University’s criticism – that the numof grades and test scores. We action, have, and will conbers reported by the Center for Equal Opportunity are consider many factors in order tinue to claim. It is simply inaccurate because they failed to take into account many to admit a group of students a statistical analysis of data factors considered in the admission process - one would who have diverse talents.” Peprovided by U-M itself, have to believe that black and Hispanic students have terson also noted that CEO which exposes the advance far more rigorous high school curriculums, participate in did not take into account acaof racial preferences in our more extracurricular activities, and write superior essays. demic essays, teacher recomadmissions system, despite mendations, or extracurricular the 2003 Supreme Court activities. Via email, Peterson This flies in the face of years of University rhetoric, ruling and the obvious precremarked “…CEO based its which asserts that affirmative action is necessary because edent put in place to end analysis on partial data which such practices. black and Hispanic students attend inferior schools with hopelessly skews the results Former Supreme inferior facilities and amenities, and thus receive an and renders them wholly inCourt Justice Sandra Day inferior education. accurate. That is because we O’Connor remarked at the were not able to give complete Center for Equal Opportunity conclusion of Grutter v. information for students in in- Chairwoman Linda Chavez Bollinger, “We expect that 25 years from Voters will have the opportunity to determine the stances where that information now, the use of racial preferences will no fate of affirmative action and the use racial preferences would allow the recipient to inlonger be necessary,” However, CEO’s recent publica- in governmental settings on November 7th through the fer their identity and thus violate their privacy.” tions show that the university is straying far from the MCRI, but until then, the Center for Equal OpportuBut to believe the University’s criticism – that other nity leaves us with factors are largely much to ponder responsible for about the state the racial dispariof admissions at ties – one would U-M and the true have to believe commitment of that black and our University to Hispanic students promote equality. have far more rigPerhaps it is time orous high school for the University curriculums, parto reflect on the ticipate in more dream of Marextracurricular actin Luther King tivities, and write Jr. and judge insuperior essays. dividuals not by This flies in the color of their the face of years skin, but by the of University rhetcontent of their oric, which asserts character. MR Priobability of admission assuming that the applicant is male, a that affirmative ac- Michigan The effects of racial preferences can be seen in the resident, with no parent who attended the institution, tion is necessary and has thesame total SAT score and high school GPA as the academic performance of students. median for black admittees for that particular year. because black and Hispanic students direction that O’Connor attend inferior schools with inferior facilities and ameni- envisioned. Join us for a ties, and thus receive an inferior education. Regardless, Regardless of the the University has avoided disputing the actual findings weak explanations ofof the study for the time being. fered by the University, the fact remains that race is A black male from Michigan, with simply not a minor no alumni parents, and an equivalent factor in the adLSAT score and GPA to that of a median missions process. Race continues to white applicant, has a 79% chance of be a defining charadmission to the University’s Law School acteristic of applicompared to a 28% chance for a His- cants and a major panic male, a 4% chance for Asians, factor in application consideration. and a 9% chance for a white student. The numbers show that the University has resorted Peterson also questioned the timing of the release to widespread, full-scale of the studies, saying “It is no coincidence that CEO discrimination in order has released this report in the weeks leading up to a bal- to achieve a limited form lot proposal that would outlaw public affirmative in the of skin-deep “diversity.” state of Michigan.” Linda Chavez responded by say- What is more disturbing ing, “If the University is unhappy with the timing of is that the University, as

DEBATE ON THE

MICHIGAN CIVIL RIGHTS INITIATIVE Thursday, October 26 7:30pm Trotter House Second Floor

P. 4

The Michigan Review

Editorials

he Michigan Review is the independent, student-run journal of conservative and libertarian opinion at the University of Michigan. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of the Editorial Board. Ergo, they are unequivocally correct and just. Signed articles, letters, and cartoons represent the opinions of the author, and not necessarily those of the Review. You can contact the Editorial Board at: mrev@umich.edu

Ann Arbor Police, DPS Need to Focus on Real Crime

Gubernatorial Election Leaves Much to be Desired N THE BEGINNING, THE 2006 MICHIGAN GUBERNATORIAL election

■ From Suite One:

HE AGE-OLD DEBATE OVER CAMPUS SAFETY AND THE TREND toward paternalism have manifested itself once again in Ann Arbor, leading to a puzzling state of law enforcement at the University of Michigan. An inverted atmosphere of justice pervades the Department of Public Safety and Ann Arbor Police’s tactics and strategies, leaving students less safe and maintaining only silly and misprioritized policies in regards to students. The official attitude of these respective police departments seems to view students, more than crime itself, as their antagonists. Police forces and students both view each other with intense suspicion. When police and students do interact, these mentalities create a confrontational atmosphere that precludes possible cooperation between the groups. First, law enforcement in Ann Arbor acts more as an implement of the surrounding community than what constitutes the community’s core—the University and its students. The police view students as transients who only move through and disrupt the continuity of life here in Ann Arbor. The police’s job, Ann Arbor citizens argue, is more to contain and corral students, rather than to serve the community as a whole—students and citizens alike. While the surrounding community might like to pretend that students and their lifestyle are not a fact of life in this college (yes, college) town, it must certainly come to terms with the fundamental elements of a college campus; rowdiness, drinking, carousing, and otherwise tomfoolery do exist, and are unlikely to change because of the town trying to twist the arms of students, via the police. And students are not without blame, either. We must also come to terms with the fact that the University is not a self-contained organism with the effects of our lifestyle only being rendered unto ourselves. Many students live in interface neighborhoods interspersed with young families; they are not interested in having their children woken up by “Ms. New Booty” at 2 am on a weekend. At the same time, residents must understand that they don’t live in a typical suburban environment and may encounter more empty red cups on their sidewalks than their counterparts in Bloomfield Hills and Rochester. The unfortunate reality of the current policing scheme is its focus on the trivial misdemeanor crimes that scarcely affect life (and will scarcely be changed), while other serious and violent crimes seem to be on the rise in Ann Arbor. For instance, a Michigan Daily story reported that crime was on the rise here, as represented by the uptick in arrests of students over the past year. Of course, the vast majority of these arrests were alcohol-related. As we report in this issue, the University itself is taking alcohol infractions less seriously, with simple online tests or classes as their punishment. Students who enjoy a drink on the weekend are not hardened criminals or alcoholics—more or less, they’re normal. Meanwhile, stabbings and robberies are, and have been, on the rise. In fact, the October 23 issue of the Daily reported a stabbing in front of the Michigan Union. The impacts of these crimes on the University community are far more detrimental than drinking. This is unacceptable, and what has been the response of AAPD? Enforcing littering violations against tailgating students after football games. Of course, much of the emphasis has been because of an inherent pressure to maintain a good image, not to mention that alcohol citations are much easier to give than tracking violent crime. One need only look to the fact that the police were out in larger numbers on Parents’ Weekend than maybe any other weekend this past year. The police are not here as a PR machine. They have a very real purpose and a role to play. Crime enforcement is an important, year-long task. AAPD and DPS should be consistent in their efforts, if nothing else. Ann Arbor continues to believe that it remains the small town it was when U-M first came here but as the University has expanded, so has the city. As Ann Arbor becomes a bigger town, its police forces will be confronted with more violent crime and should shift their focus from parenting college parties to deterring more serious crime. MR

10.24.06

held much promise. In the four years under the leadership of Jennifer Granholm, the Michigan economy has fallen more deeply into its automotive industry-induced recession, and the 2006 state unemployment rate became the highest in the nation at 7.1 percent. While the failing automotive industry cannot be pinned on Granholm, it must be noted that she has done little to stem the ebbing tide of jobs flowing out of Michigan, or to diversify the employment base. Statewide discontent with the economy is rampant, and it seemed that a challenger who could more adequately address the unemployment and economic woes could take the Governor’s seat without a problem. Dick DeVos, the Ada, MI businessman best known as heir to the Amway fortune, emerged in 2005 as the Republican nominee for governor. In fact, the primary was nearly unnecessary, since almost from the moment he emerged on the campaign trail, DeVos was the clear-cut favorite. While he HAS never held political office, his wife, Betsy DeVos, was the chairperson of the Michigan Republican Party, and along with their immense wealth (to date, he has spent over $16 million of his own funds on the campaign), their influence in Michigan Republican politics helped DeVos gain early leads over Granholm. However, as November 7 approaches, DeVos seems to be losing more and more ground. While he has focused on the economy, his economic “Turn-Around Plan” has been criticized for its unwillingness to criticize anything related to the automotive industry unions. Many see the excessively generous contracts between the Big Three and their unions as a primary drain on the Michigan economy, and the economic restructuring of the state centers on how the automotive industry responds to outsourcing and the foreign concept of “fiscal responsibility.” Meanwhile, DeVos has skirted social issues with the exception of the most controversial: intelligent design, stem cell research, and affirmative action. DeVos has come out in support of teaching intelligent design with evolution in public school classrooms; he is against stem cell research; and, he is staunchly against the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative (MCRI), and is for affirmative action. While his stances on the first two issues conform with the stances of the Republican party, DeVos’s position on racial preferences is deviant, and divisive. However, Republicans will still vote for DeVos, because of their desire for change; therefore, he seems to be using this stance to “buy” the votes of moderates and minorities. His money, political clout, and tactics do not seem to be working, however. Despite her shortcomings as Governor, the Detroit Free Press’ October 15, 2006 poll shows Granholm holding a 49-41 percent lead among likely voters. Furthermore, among voters who have made up their mind, Granholm holds nearly a 20-point lead. While she may be popular, the lack of effective policies has exacerbated the state’s economic woes, regardless of statements to the contrary. Granholm merely creates stopgaps for the economic issues and job exodus, and most problematically, she fosters the status quo for the auto unions. In short, Granholm caters to special interests out of her own self-interest, much to the detriment of the state and its economy. Michigan’s relationship with the automotive industry is akin to Sisyphus pushing his boulder up the hill. In a state where blue-collar jobs are moving to other countries, Michigan needs a leader who is willing to engage the international economy instead of using free trade as a red herring for political benefit. Making the state of Michigan internationally competitive needs to be a priority, with an eye towards a global economy that is not going away any time soon. In reality, things will not change until a true paradigm shift takes place within the mentality of Michigan citizens. We cannot afford politics that encourage and sustain irresponsible attitudes. Yes, there may be social problems in this state. But the salient quandary is undeniably in regards to the economy. So rather than coming out for or against affirmative action, or spreading campaign ads slinging mud at their opponent, Michigan needs a governor who will deal frankly and honestly with the economy and unemployment. Voters must take this into careful consideration on November 7, but regardless of their choice, Michigan may remain in its economic quagmire for years to come. As Granholm has told us many times, “in the next five years, [we’re] going to be blown away.” MR

P. 5

10.24.06

Columns

■ The Feminine Mystique

Can’t We All Just Get Along? ‘Fraid Not.

T’S THAT TIME OF THE YEAR again. The leaves are falling, it’s raining constantly, and the yard signs are popping up like dandelions; yes, it’s campaign season. The mudslinging ads—which we were promised we’d avoid this term—are everywhere. Perhaps you’ve received a phone call or two from Dick DeVos, Mike Bouchard, Jennifer Granholm, or Debbie Stabenow (didn’t expect them to sound so robotic, did you?), reminding just how much, or maybe how little, their opponent has done. While these are meant to sway the undecided populace, I can’t help but wonder how many decided voters stay away on Election Day because of these tactics. Of course, dirty politics is nothing new; the term “muckraker” was coined a century ago when Theodore Roosevelt was in office. As unsavory information has become increasingly available, so have the cries for less partisan politics. Now, one group is taking this to an entirely new level. Unity ’08, a group based out of Denver, Colorado, aims for politicians who are, according

■ Strict Scrutiny

to their website, www.unity08.com, more in line with the majority of Americans’ beliefs and needs. They assert that both parties “have polarized and alienated the people,” “are unduly influenced by single-issue groups,” and are “excessively dominated by money.” True, true, and true. Unity ’08 aims to nominate a Presidential ticket that represents both parties, and, to paraphrase Thomas Jefferson, for the people, they plan to do this by the people. If nothing else, they say the ticket will give people another option and may force the two dominant parties to reevaluate Amanda their policies. Nichols Unity ’08 is a great idea. A very, very nice idea. It’s like that group in high school who wanted to represent and include all the students, from the Homecoming queen to the Goths to the average Joes just suffering through class. But I have an inkling that is all the Unity ’08 campaign will be: an idea. With the exception of the Bull Moose Party in 1912, no third party in the history of American politics

has ever made even a slightly successful run for the presidency. In comparison to the two entrenched parties, minor parties don’t have the voters; they don’t hold power in various levels of the governmental hierarchy; and most importantly, they don’t have the funds. However, Unity ’08 claims they have “a group of voters who comprise at least 20% of the national electorate,” and they say they “feel confident that our voters will decide the 2008 election.” Perhaps they do have a sizable slice of the American populace, and perhaps these voters will decide the election. However, they may prove to be spoilers, and decide the election in favor of either Democrats or Republicans (as many say Ralph Nader has). How does this force the parties to change? After all, in their victory, one party is validated, and through the nature of such a defeat, the other party feels only vengence. There are, of course, other issues with Unity ‘08’s campaign. Who will be President, and who will be Vice President? The Vice President’s role is often viewed as piddly—the wife of Woodrow Wilson (coincidentally, the man put into office by the 1912 election) was said to have run the government while Wilson was incapacitated from a stroke; there is

little talk—if any—of the Vice President. The likely President would still wield the power of his original party. And if the powers of President and VP are shared, does the government become an oligarchy? Besides, what member of Congress with any sense for his own future would work with such an administration? Instead of achieving actual political change, such an administration might just drag us further into the mire of filibuster politics, and absolutely nothing will be achieved. Now, let me say this: I hope I’m wrong. With all my heart and soul, I hope I will be proved wrong. Not necessarily because I believe in the pie-in-the-sky idea of a bipartisan ticket, but because of the urgent need for political change within both parties. But unfortunately, this can only be achieved for the people by the people. This means people must actually go to the voting booth, which we’ve learned is too much to ask. So while Unity ’08 is a fantastic goal, I fear it will stay just that until something galvanizes the American people enough to get off their asses and do something about this mess. And when they do, it may be the first time in nearly three centuries. MR

Playing the “Victim” Card Not the Key to Acceptance

arlier this month, students at Gallaudet University in Washington, DC stopped classes by hosting “sit-ins” in several campus buildings and barricading the gates at the entrance to the college grounds. These students were calling for the resignation of the Gallaudet’s new president, Dr. Jane Fernandes. Fernandes faces accusations of not granting proper respect to sign language. Sign language carries immense weight at Gallaudet; it is the only university designed for “deaf and hard of hearing people in the world.” Much of the criticism of Fernandes, who is hearing impared, springs from her relationship to “mainstreaming.” Mainstreaming is a set of policies that attempt to integrate deaf students into non-deaf education. It includes policies such as placing deaf students in classes with non-deaf students and using cochlear implants. Cochlear implants, which if planted early, provide the chance of recipients developing near-normal hearing. Yet, many in the deaf community have resisted the use of such implants. One reason pointed out by Tatalovich and

Smith of Indiana University is that such implants “pose a threat to family bonding” in homes where sign language is the prevailing language. One criticism conspicuously lacking is any denigration of Fernandes’ ability to be an effective president. Many of the students appear much more concerned with Fernandes’ politics than her ability to lead. According to the New York Times, one student lambasted Fernandes for “not banning students from speaking in front of deaf students.” While it seems amiable to create an environment Adamwhere sign language can flourPaulish, it seems counterproductive to isolate students from the broader society. Students will realize that when they leave college people will speak in front of them and it will not be meant as an affront to deaf culture. I do not intend to claim that users of sign language should agree to be second-class citizens, but that they should understand that not everything is an attempt to exclude them. Linguistic acceptance is a two-way street. Does it seem a bit odd that when Americans protest the singing of the National

Anthem in Spanish charges of xenophobia fill the press, but when sign language speakers decry having people “speak” in their presence they are considered defenders of a language? The events at Gallundent make more sense when viewed as a paragon of a disturbing trend in group identification, where we increasingly identify one another by our sufferings. This unity through victimhood approach greatly limits our potential. No one valorizes Lance Armstrong because he had cancer; he is a hero because he won seven straight Tour de France’s, despite living through cancer. Yet many demean Helen Keller as “that deaf-mute girl” obscuring her rarely read writing and political activism in the process. Deaf culture, and cultural movements generally, will fail to gain respect from the larger society if they continue to trumpet collective persecution. The shunning of those with half-functional cochlear implants and those who attend hearing schools does little to create a deaf unity. Unless if, of course, one bases unity solely on the acceptance of suffering. Deaf people have a lot of extra challenges in life. The challenges themselves do not give rise to respect, rather, the way people manage to achieve their goals in

spite of challenges does. Sadly, victimhood identification extends far beyond the deaf community. Many groups claim that outsiders can never understand them because “you haven’t suffered like us.” This approach concedes that the painful experiences in our lives define us rather than make us accept the responsibility and self-esteem that comes with overcoming a hardship. Furthermore, these attempts engage us in an arms race where groups fight to claim that their identity has experienced worse suffering and pity becomes the measure of success. Pity creates a veneer of acceptance but does nothing to foster respect. In response to the protestors Fernandes stated to the New York Times that “We’re in a fight for the survival of Gallaudet… It’s absolutely essential that I stay.” Fernandes may be engaged in a fight much broader than she realizes. The tension between those who would pity a person by suffering and those who admire a person for success appears to be increasing. Personally, I will recognize the heroism of people like Armstrong and Keller. MR

P. 6

News

Affirmative Action Redux

Supreme Court, with new members, will hear fresh race preference suit By Danny Harris, ‘10

FFIRMATIVE ACTION, always managing to be a contentious issue—especially at University of Michigan, is grabbing even more headlines these days. In 2003, the Supreme Court ruled on two suits brought against the University of Michigan. Grutter v. Bollinger and Gratz v. Bollinger both took issue with the attention paid to race in the admissions process for the University of Michigan Law School and undergraduate program respectively. U-M considered the cases a great victory when the court upheld precedent and declared diversity “a compelling interest in higher education”, even though the university’s undergraduate admissions process was declared unconstitutional based on its points system. This year, the court has decided to revisit the question of affirmative action by jointly hearing two cases wherein parents sued school boards in Washington and Kentucky for racial balancing admissions policies. Both school districts utilize open enrollment policies where students need to apply for the high school of their choice. These decisions could potentially affect the rulings made for affirmative action at the university level. What outcome can we expect? In Kentucky, Jefferson County requires that each school enroll a population of between 15 and 50 percent black, in accordance with the demographics of the county. About 95 percent of students are placed in one of their top two chosen schools, but some are bused across the county upwards of an hour away from their homes. The county plan has been upheld so far at the appellate level. In Washington, a series of four tiebreakers exists in the Seattle Public School District to determine enrollment for schools that are oversubscribed. The first is preference to those students with siblings already at the school of choice. The second is race; a student is accepted if his race brings the school closer to a 40 percent white, 60 percent black ratio, which is the current proportion throughout the district as a whole. Only after that is a student’s proximity to the school considered, followed by a random chance tiebreaker if necessary. This plan has been suspended until the appeals process is complete. One major difference in the Court between 2003 and the present are the members themselves. Justices John Roberts and Samuel Alito are considered more conservative than their immediate predecessors and Sandra Day O’Connor,

the swing vote in the Michigan cases, is no longer on the Court. However, there are contrasting sides of conservatism here; one advocates that precedent be upheld in principle, and the other argues against the practice of affirmative action. If the Court does rule against affirmative action policies, it will likely depend upon a swing voter. It is widely considered that this vote now belongs to Justice Anthony Kennedy. In 2003, he agreed with the principle that diversity is “a compelling interest,” but he was of the opinion that both the U-M Law School and undergraduate admissions policies were unconstitutional. Another interesting point to remember is that in their rulings in 2003, the Supreme Court justices noted that the need for affirmative action should not be eternal. It was as if they were discouraging future courts from upholding precedent because this issue needs to be addressed in the current context of society. Tentatively, they stated their hope that the need for these policies would dissolve within the next twenty five years. Three years after that decision, the Court is already hearing another case on the issue. It is important to remember the Supreme Court is not merely revisiting the U-M cases, but rather hearing new ones about similar issues. “The Court is not going to overturn its decisions in 2003,” says Bob Pachella, expert psychologist and professor at U-M. According to him, the Court rules on what it is presented with; in 2003, vast amounts of social research were argued to influence the Court’s opinion on the value of diversity in higher education. These new cases now deal with whether or not that applies to compulsory education, as well as the various methods that are legal to achieve that diversity. In deciding the former U-M undergraduate admissions policy to be unconstitutional, the Court wrote that the means to achieve diversity must be “narrowly tailored” so as not to violate the Equal Protection clause of the 14th Amendment. Look to the Supreme Court to support the ideal of diversity in education once again, but expect them to mitigate regarding the appropriate means for achieving this end because they must have a motive for hearing these cases when precedent has already been upheld in federal court. This could set a new precedent relative to what U-M admissions is allowed to consider, but it would take another lawsuit to enforce whatever decision applies. MR

Whose Domain is it, Anyway?

Proposal 4 would give property owners more security By Karen Boore, ‘09

HIS NOVEMBER, TWELVE states, including Michigan, have proposals on their ballots addressing the issues of property rights and eminent domain. For Michigan, Proposal 4 comes in the wake of the June 2005 U.S. Supreme Court decision for Kelo v. City of New London, which ruled that the promotion of ‘economic development’ qualifies as ‘public use’ under the Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment. Even though the land would be transferred to another private entity, the court controversially decided that this transfer was acceptable because the takings were part of a “carefully formulated development plan” on a large scale and because the takings would benefit the public with new jobs and tax revenue. Proposal 4 proposes an amendment to the state constitution to limit eminent domain takings for certain private uses. In the Kelo judgment, Justice John Paul Stevens emphasized that nothing “precludes any state from placing further restrictions on its exercise of the takings power,” and Proposal 4 would explicitly prohibit takings in which the government takes private property in order to transfer it to another private entity for economic development and an increase in tax revenue. Michigan has had a great impact on eminent domain cases throughout the country. In 1981, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled on a case similar to Kelo: Poletown Neighborhood Council v. Detroit. General Motors had come to the City of Detroit saying that they were closing an old plant and were interested in building a new one in Detroit, but needed the land to do so. In a time of economic hardship, they estimated that 6,000 jobs would be created. Detroit found the Poletown neighborhood suitable, even with its 1,000 residences, 600 businesses, and numerous churches, and in a 5-2 decision, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that the takings were lawful. This case, which sent taxpaying residents packing and completely changed the makeup of a neighborhood, set a precedent used across the country. In 2004, another case overturned this ruling. After constructing a new runway and terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Airport, Wayne County was buying land with the aid of a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration. A condition of this grant was that the county had to put the land to economically

10.24.06

productive use. The county then created a plan to develop a technology park, but 19 landowners refused to sell their land. In Wayne County v. Hathcock, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled unanimously that takings for economic development and increased tax revenue do not fall under eminent domain. The court relied heavily on Justice Ryan’s dissent in Poletown. Proposal 4 would codify this recent decision into Michigan’s constitution and prevent it from being overruled by future courts. Because homeowners are often unwilling sellers, the proposal provides “that if an individual’s principal residence is taken by government for public use, the individual must be paid at least 125% of property’s fair market value.” The proposal also places the burden on the government to prove that the taking is for public use. Further, if the taking is to eliminate blight, the government must show with “clear and convincing” evidence that the property is blighted, and must do so on a property by property basis, making the bulldozing of multiple city blocks impossible. This will prevent government from declaring an entire area blighted and handing it over to a developer, even when it contains property which is not blighted as in the case of Poletown. As Patrick Wright states in an analysis of Proposal 4: “where blight is genuinely the concern, the government’s interest is in removing the blight, not in what replaces it.” Opponents of Proposal 4 say that eminent domain must sometimes be employed in order to attract business and economically improve areas. Those who refuse to sell their land can hold up development projects. However, eminent domain, while powerful, is only one of the tools developers have at their disposal; developers have the ability to negotiate in secret, use agents, or use a strategy in which everyone in the neighborhood is given the same terms. Eminent domain does not exist so that those who might make the most efficient or productive use of property will have that property granted to them by an overbearing government. With Proposal 4 property owners in Michigan could be more secure in their belief that the government, true to its purpose, will defend the rights to their property. MR

P. 7

10.24.06

News

Intercultural Incompetence? Speaker stresses the benefits of cross-cultural communication By Rebecca Christy, ‘08

HIS YEAR THE COLLEGE OF Literature, Science and the Arts has chosen Global Citizenship as the theme for the academic school year. Throughout the year, the University is sponsoring guest speakers, workshops, and activities to explore the shift of the individual from being a citizen of the nation to a citizen of the world. On October 9th, Dr. Janet Bennett, Executive Director of the Intercultural Communication Institute, spoke at the Michigan Union surrounding the issue of intercultural competence. Intercultural competence, according to Bennett, is, “the capacity to communicate appropriately in a variety of cultural contexts.” Bennett discussed the five stages of achieving intercultural competence. First, people experience ethnocentrism where they feel culturally biased against diversity. The second stage acknowledges that everyone at their core has basic human needs. The third stage recognizes the

differences between cultures and seeks to only reason the two men knew each other discover them. The final stages allow the was their membership in the same bowlindividual to accept the differences of ing league. Bennett argued that this crosscultures in respects to their own, and fi- cultural donation resulted from the men’s nally, to fully adapt to these changes. shared experience. The author Putnum Bennett used a variety of personal argues that the decline of social organiexperiences to express the value of inter- zations, like bowling leagues, has caused cultural competence, but the main mes- people to withdraw from their communisage of her lecture left a few students ties. He notes that over the course of the questioning her suggeslast century, tions on how to achieve political parBennett’s analysis seems to a personal sense of inticipation has forget that organizations such d e c r e a s e d tercultural competence. Bennett expressed by 25% and as bowling leagues, country the need to increase sochurch atclubs, and neighborhood orcial capital as the most tendance is ganizations were often used successful means of down 20-50 achieving the final stage to perpetuate homophyly and %. of cultural acceptance. By ineven racism, not teach Social capital comprises creasing diversity. the social networks that social capitie two or more people tal through together in a reciprocal relationship. To group membership, Bennett believes that explain, she used an example from Rob- individuals will become more acceptert Putnum’s book Bowling Alone, in which ing of diversity. However, her argument Putnam described how a man received a seems to lack any discussion on the conkidney from someone of a different race, cept of homophyly. Homophyly is the age, and socioeconomic background. The tendency for people to associate with

others that are similar to themselves. In a study on the concept conducted in 2001 by Lynn Smith-Lovin and Miller Mcpherson of the University of Arizona, and James M Cook of Duke University observed, “Homophily limits people’s social worlds in a way that has powerful implications for the information they receive, the attitudes they form, and the interactions they experience. Homophily in race and ethnicity creates the strongest divides in our personal environments, with age, religion, education, occupation, and gender following in roughly that order.” Bennett’s analysis seems to forget that organizations such as bowling leagues, country clubs, and neighborhood organizations were often used to perpetuate homophyly and even racism, not teach diversity. With social group constructs revolving around the “birds of a feather flock together” mentality, Bennett does provide the connection that links simply being a member within a group and actually achieving cultural competence. Looking at the make-up of many groups on campus today, it appears that homophyly may still rein. MR

NY Times Editor Responds to Tough Questions on Bush, Iraq War

By Adam Paul, ‘08

Keller’s lecture focused on his recent clash with the Bush administration, and many others in the press, over FTER EXPOSING NSA WIRETAPPING pro- the Times’ decision to publish articles concerning secret grams and asset takings, Bill Keller has learned NSA wiretapping and asset seizures meant to stop terto handle criticism, especially from the White House. rorists. Keller described the year-long process where the Keller, the Executive Editor of the New York Times Times investigated the wiretapping story. The program, shared some of his experiences with U-M students and which Keller depicted as functioning “without the legal staff this week when he presented the University’s 16th courtesy of a warrant,” has maintained support from annual Davis, Markert, Nickerson lecture on academic the administration, despite unfavorable review in court. and intellectual freedom. According to Keller, he met with the President before In his lecture entitled “Editors in Chains: Secrets, publication and was told that the “Times should expect Security and the Press,” Keller discussed the role of a to be held accountable for the next terrorist attacks on America.” Keller defended his trade against Keller intimated that journalists are more per- its assumed disregard for national sesonally affected by war because of their place- curity. He expressed deep respect for ment in war zones and their strong relationships reporters in Iraq, who risk their lives with stringers, locals who provide vital informa- for their stories. With great regret, he has had to phone the families of two tion—often at great personal risk—to reporters. of his reporters when they were kidnapped. Keller intimated that journalists are more personally affected by war responsible media in today’s increasingly polarized po- because of their placement in war zones and their strong litical climate. He explained that all serious newspapers relationships with stringers, locals who provide vital in“strive to be independent and impartial.” Keller empha- formation—often at great personal risk—to reporters. sized that his job at the Times requires him to edit every Keller held up the duty of journalists to accurately repage “but two—the editorial pages.” While giving col- port even if the information proves disturbing. Journalumnists freedom, he stated that news writers attempt to ists “cannot become propagandists, even to a system we be “agnostic as to where a story may lead” rather than admire.” Rather than accept the case against reporters, beginning with an agenda and seeking out those facts Keller turned the security burden on the administrathat prop it up. He called for a journalism founded upon tion, asking “What are the consequences of the White “justification not assertion.” House’s zeal to tighten control over information?”

The media, the law, and the administration can all positively reshape the position of professional journalists, in Keller’s view. While he admitted that anonymous sources are an integral facet of piecing together a story, Keller agued that journalists should attempt to get them on the record or make clear that their media outlet isn’t willing to “bet the paper” on protecting their identity. A federal shield law would grant journalists the buffer needed to take information from anonymous sources to print. Keller critiqued the administration for its Nixionesque clutching to information. He urged the administration to restore “diplomatic relations” with national media outlets and end the rapid upshots in subpoenas that have hampered journalists’ efforts. Keller received harsh comments from questioners. One respondent accused Keller of burying and discrediting a new John Hopkins study concerning the death tolls of Iraqis. Keller quipped back that he didn’t think “running a thousand word article was the equivalent of burying the story.” About half of those in attendance broke into raucous applause when a questioner condemned the Times for “allowing this catastrophe [the Iraq War] to happen.” Keller responded that his paper’s pre-war coverage drew not only from administration reports but from opinions of weapons inspectors in Iraq and statements made by UN members. Hopefully with Keller around, there will be no “editors in chains” anytime soon. MR

P. 8

News

10.24.06

‘U’ Re-Evaluates Stance on Alcohol-Related Offenses

Student groups recommend more educational, not punitive MIP measures By Jenni Cheleyak, ‘10

NDERAGE DRINKING HAS BECOME commonplace in Ann Arbor—so much so that the only difference between 20 and 21 seems to be drinking at Rick’s. That is why the Code of Conduct Advisory Board’s (CCAB) proposed changes to the current alcohol policy are so crucial. Every two years, students, faculty and administrators are able to suggest amendments to the student code. Under the current “Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities,” twenty violations are all theoretically subject to the same sanctions. MSA and CCAB are recommending revisions to the policy that would make alcohol infractions less disciplinary and more educational. The Office of Student Conflict Resolutions is responsible for the consequences that students face due to alcohol infractions. The OSCR is primarily concerned with violations that occur on campus, which are then typically reported by the Department of Public Safety. According to University Health Services, “under the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1991, the University is required to have an alcohol and other drug policy and distribute this policy annually to all employees and students.” The revised policy states that for the first offense, the student will be sent a warning letter from the OSCR. For a second offense, “no formal action will be taken if the student self-initiates contact with help resources.” Jennifer Schrage, Director of the OSCR, makes it clear that “there isn’t necessarily a canned response to alcohol…we try to meet students where they’re at.” As the current policy states, if there appears to be “serious concern for the welfare of the student,” stronger action may be taken. She notes that students “can choose to accept responsibility…we try to educate first” instead of opting for the stricter “traditional resources.” It is not until the third offense that the student would be charged with violation of the Statement and subject to sanctions. However, according to Schrage, it is “rare that we would suspend a student for alcohol”—dispelling the rumors of frequent expulsions for alcohol violations.

The most vital part of the revision is that it would be less likely that an alcohol infraction would remain on a student’s permanent disciplinary record. Having such an offense on a permanent record can interfere with applications for graduate school and government jobs. Mitch Holzrichter, a law student and chair of CCAB, comments that “We want to make sure that students aren’t haunted by past mistakes, that they actually learn from it, [and are] not just slapped on the wrist.” Holzrichter believes that “Not every violation needs to be treated like a crime… It would take a lot of University resources to really discipline alcohol. [They should] use the resolution process and University resources for serious problems.” In reality, the changes do not mean that the University is coming to terms with the fact that students drink; rather, they seem to be trying to find a different approach to a difficult issue. Holzrichter responds that, “I’m sure every student would love to hear us say alcohol will not be an offense, but that’s not going to happen.” Students affected by alcohol violations are generally already facing misdemeanor criminal charges, which often result in fines and probation. The University wants to help educate students, rather than punishing them further, in the hopes that they will open their eyes and see that “alcohol is a drug” as Schrage says. In truth, the proposed revisions will be a slight alteration of the existing policy, rather than a drastic overhaul. So, what exactly are these “educational resources” frequently touted by the OSCR? Often, such a phrase provokes images of Alcoholic’s Anonymous meetings or patronizing substance abuse classes. However, the resources are many and varied, depending on the seriousness of the student’s case. For instance, for first-time offenders, there is E-Chug, a 15-minute online questionnaire. With E-Chug, a student can explore their own drinking patterns, as well as see how they are affected by family history of alcohol dependence and campus trends. Also online, perhaps intended for those with a more severe situation, MyStudentBody is a “more extensive interactive online program” to help students cut back on drinking and other dangerous incidents. Other resources offer in-person consultations. BASICS is a brief assessment by University Health Services, while ASAP is offered by Counseling and Psychological Services. ASAP focuses on students who see a connection between their drinking patterns and their “emotional concerns.” While some students may not believe in such programs, the benefits are still there. Holzrichter

some extent, as these individuals will no longer receive preferences based on their race or gender. This is not the matter in debate. Unfortunately, the panel on Propositially read excerpts from her report The Potential Impact of tion 209 devolved into a contest to restate this the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative on Employment, fact as many times as possible. Education and Contracting, and lamented the deDuring the panel, Kaufmann lamented the Despite its feigned efforts, the University mise of numerous programs designed to help has rarely strayed beyond its “wink and nudge” elimination of a program that “helps minority women and minorities. paraprofessional teachers become fully licensed neutrality on the MCRI. It is no surprise, given Kaufmann then invited the audience to how heavily this University weighs race, and teachers” in reference to the California School “check her footnotes” if they wanted more inhow much it has invested in the defense of Paraprofessional Teacher Training Program. formation on the effects of Proposition 209. Today, the program has expanded, and currently affirmative action. But the repeated attempts Hopefully the audience did not follow her sugto offer “unbiased” opinions on the MCRI, serves 1,800 members, 70 percent of whom are gestion. During the panel, Kaufmann made such as in the case of this university panel, reference to the elimination of a program that ethnic minorities. are becoming laughable. Here’s to the end of “helps minority paraprofessional teachers beMichigan’s neutrality, for better or worse, in come fully licensed teachers;” however, a look two weeks. MR at her footnote reveals that Kaufmann was referring to – are actually quite obvious. The numbers of women the California School Paraprofessional Teacher Training and minorities in certain institutions will decrease to Program, which, far from being eliminated, has actually “Prop. 209,” from Page 1

expanded since 1996, and now serves 1,800 members, 70 percent of whom are ethnic minorities. The effects of Proposition 209 – and the MCRI

reinforces the idea that students will have “control over whether it goes on their record” if they seek treatment. With respect to such resources, many wonder why a student receiving an Minor in Possession (MIP) violation should be seen as if they need treatment, when so many others drink without getting caught. Perry Teicher, an LSA representative from CCAB, stresses that the process is not necessarily counseling or treatment, but contact so the “University knows people aren’t falling through the cracks. We’re not saying that drinking a cup of alcohol means you’re an alcoholic.” Holzrichter adds that “we have to check in—it would be negligent not to. If you’ve been caught drinking twice, you’ve probably been drinking much more than that.” Regardless of opinions on the matter, the proposed changes to the alcohol policy still have a long way to go. The proposal will be submitted to the Student Relations Advisory Committee (SRAC) November 1, along with the rest of the recommended amendments to the student code. In the Spring, SRAC will present the 27 proposed changes to Mary Sue Coleman. There seems to be considerable faith that the amendment will be adopted. Julie Peterson, a spokesperson for the University, declined to comment on the amendments. The “administration doesn’t want to weigh in on various details… we want to allow the process to proceed without prejudice.” She did comment, however, that “many amendments have been adopted” and that “most do get forwarded by SRAC to the president.” Schrage agrees, saying that “the amendment process is designed to ensure a student voice, and my senses are that the SRAC seriously considers every proposal brought to them.” Teicher emphasizes that “people want to see changes in the process…[It’s a] collaborative process. We recommend the best ideas most likely to be adopted, rather than throwing out off the wall ideas.” Last year, 16 out of the 17 proposals were adopted, which suggests that the revisions to the alcohol policy have a strong chance of being approved. Teicher mentions, in closing, that CCAB is “within MSA- we’re representing the student body. If people have opinions, it’s not too late to say— through e-mail, MSA, [or through] open forums.” Time will tell whether or not the proposed changes will be adopted, but for now it appears as if the University may take, for once, a proactive step in its alcohol policy. MR

P. 9

10.24.06

News

Korea’s nuclear testing changes the tone of world politics By Christina Zajicek, ‘10

AR WON’T HAPPEN WITH North Korea as long as Bush does nothing to provoke it,” contends a University of Michigan student, and when polled, most students agreed with this speculation, stating that the threat of war seemed distant, and if left to themselves, North Korea would take no action toward the United States. This attitude may soon change. Concern is surfacing in the wake of North Korea’s decision to detonate its first nuclear weapon on October 9. Coupled with this fear this creates are questions of how North Korea’s ownership of these weapons of mass destruction will affect global politics, for instance, the possibility of another war front for the US, and the way in which diplomacy will be carried out.

Nuking It Out

The US government emphatically actions were to be taken against North denies any intention of going to war, but Korea, the blame would be on Korea’s this statement was made before October hands, because by selling products of 9th, the day the bomb was detonated. mass destruction, they would be instigaThough the chance of tors in a world conflict. war with North Korea Secretary of State is still very small, the Donald Rumsfeld claritension between these fied, in a statement two countries cannot made on the 19th, that be ignored. there is “at least a reaIn statements to sonable likelihood that the press, President some other countries Bush makes it clear will decide that they he intends to halt any need to have nuclear transfer of nuclear weapons” if Korea weapons. When asked should offer these if he would retaliate weapons and “in a relaagainst North Korea if tively short period you they were to sell George W. Bush action figure sold separately could have two, these weapons, four, six other Bush explains that there would be “grave countries decide that.” If weapons were consequences.” Implicit in his assertion to be made available, a domino-like efis that no actions will be taken against fect would occur. This would lead to North Korea if they stopped transferring “exactly the opposite of what the internuclear weapons, and therefore if any national community wants to have hap-

pen,” Rumsfeld says. The worry is that with lower nuclear thresholds and more countries with nuclear weapons the odds of non-state entities like terrorists receiving these weapons would increase. Should this truly be a concern here? The answer is a resounding yes. Korea’s eccentric leader, Kim Jong-Il, may try to sell his nuclear weapons for economic reasons. He may be motivated by the reality that North Korea’s economy ranks as one of the poorest in the world and as a result, many of his citizens have starved to death. In a risky move, he could sell explosives to any country that is willing to pay, including countries in the Middle East. These countries could then use these weapons against the United States in response to the war in Iraq. It must therefore be reiterated that if “Bush does nothing, nothing will happen,” as several students argue, that the opposite may happen: a whole lot of something could very well occur. MR

“A Failure to Educate the Citizens of Tomorrow” Intercollegiate Studies Institute study criticizes universities for failing to edcuate students on american history and government By Brian McNally, ‘08

UICK: WHAT IS THE FEDERAL government’s largest payout program? Is it A) the military, B) Social Security, C) education, D) foreign aid, or E) welfare? If you answered B, you would be one of only 20% of college students who answered this question correctly. This question, along with 59 others, composed a civil literacy test that the Intercollegiate Studies Institute conducted through its National Civic Literacy Board (NCLB). The results of this test, distributed to 14,000 freshmen and seniors at 50 colleges and universities, were dismal. Average scores hovered around the 50% mark, with no college or university having an average above 70%, or passing. In addition, the test showed that at many universities the average test scores for seniors were below those of freshmen, indicating an actual loss of knowledge regarding economics, American history, government, and America’s relation and interactions with the world during their college education. Another major finding of this study was that students with a higher course load in the elements deigned part of “civil literacy” tended to not only score higher than their peers, but also improve their civil literacy rating between their freshman and senior years. However, the average course numbers in the report differ very little, even when comparing a college such as Calvin (ranked third), where an average of 4.41 courses have been taken, to a university like Berkley (ranked 49th), where an average of 3.95 courses have been taken. Though the report mentions that 1.5 of the courses taken at Calvin College are philosophy compared to 0.8 philosophy courses at Berkley, and that Berkley’s average contains

2.9 history/political science courses, it fails to go into the individual course titles. A class in general American History from 1860 to present will impart more knowledge, and a greater understanding of our country, than 20th Century Detroit History. With the rise of race, ethnicity, and gender requirements, such an audit of courses would be invaluable. Several external factors also influenced testing results. The NCLB found that those who participated in citizenship activities, such as voting and community service, tended to score better on the test, leading them to conclude that “better-informed citizens are also more engaged citizens”. Other conclusions relate a connection between an intact family, defined as one with two married parents living together, greater political and civic discussions at home, and higher scores. In fact “at the lowest-ranking colleges, Berkeley and Johns Hopkins, only half of all families engaged in discussions of current events or history on a weekly or daily basis.” The report puts forth five recommendations for improving America’s civil literacy rate: improve the assessment of learning outcomes at the university level; increase the number of required history, political science, and economics courses; hold higher education accountable for the preparation of citizens in a democratic republic; inform students, parents, and authorities of a university’s performance in teaching American history; and build academic centers on campus to encourage and support the advancement of civil literacy. Unfortunately, the recommendations fail to address the external factors which were found to have a connection with higher test scores as well as continued learning by the students. These conclusions are clearly supported by the tests that the NCLB put the seniors and freshmen through. However, one of the areas of the report that is likely to raise some questions, as well as possibly harm implementation of the Board’s recommendation, is the ranking system devised by the researchers. This table, which was the main focus of the ISI’s press release, displays 50 col-

leges and universities ranked by the percentage change in average test scores between freshmen and seniors. At the top of the list is Rhodes College, with a +11.6% change in test scores, while Johns Hopkins University is at number 50 with a -7.3% change. At number 35 sits the University of Michigan, with a decrease of 0.1% in test scores, a statistically irrelevant change. There are two main problems with this ranking. First, it does not display the actual averages of the tests. To find these averages, one must look at the actual report, where the full table is displayed. This table reveals that Colorado State University, ranked number 2 on percent change in scores, added 10.9% “knowledge” to its students while number 47 ranked Brown University lost 2.9%. However, when the actual report is read, it is revealed that CSU saw an increase from an average of 40.6 to 51.5% while Brown saw a loss from an average of 62.5 to 59.8%. In other words, the students at Brown still know more than those at CSU, they just forgot some material. The other main problem with the numbers is that it is implied that the accumulation of knowledge in these subjects can be represented linearly, i.e. as a function with constant growth. In reality, it is more of a logarithmic function in which knowledge is easily remembered and learned up to a certain point, after which the growth slows. This would explain the slow rates of growth for more elite universities, where the average of the test is already close to 60%, and even the decrease of the average at some schools, such as Johns Hopkins, where more students focus on degrees unrelated to the subjects tested. Even with these minor discrepancies, the main thrust of the report’s findings is still valid. It is clear that a more active role needs to be played by universities and by citizen students themselves in the further education and retention of the core values of civic duty. The words of Thomas Jefferson ring true that, “If a nation expects to be ignorant and free … it expects what never was and never will be.” MR

Royal Shakespeare Company Lectures & Interviews

P. 10

Arts & Culture

If you can’t make it to the main performances of the Royal Shakespeare Company, the University offers over 40 events and activities to complement the performances. All of those listed below are free and open to the public, unless otherwise noted.

The RSC Takes Ann Arbor: A Behindthe-Scenes Look at the Making of the RSC Residency Monday, October 30, 7:00pm, Ann Arbor District Library

Listen to UMS President Kenneth C. Fischer, along with the leaders of the RSC education department, explain the history of the U-M—RSC relationship and why Ann Arbor has become a favorite spot for the company.

Perspectives on Shakespeare: “The Noblest Roman of Them All: Gender and Heroism in Julius Caesar and Antony and Cleopatra” Thursday, November 2, 12:00pm., Institute for the Humanities, Rm. 2022

University of Illinois at Chicago English Professor Mary Beth Rose takes an alternate look at two of Shakespeare’s dramas and their common themes of warfare, heroism, sacrifice, and gender.

A&D Distinguished Visitor Series: “Designing Shakespeare”

Thursday, November 2, 5:00pm, Michigan Theatre

Sponsored by the School of Art & Design and alum Penny W. Stamps, the public lecture series brings renowned artists and performers to the Michigan Theatre every Thursday at 5 pm. Artists present and discuss their work, giving students and faculty a unique look into the new projects and artistic process of important artists. The series hosts the renowned production and design team behind The Tempest performances. Rupurt Goold (Director), Giles Cadle (Stage Design), Paul Anderson (Lighting), Adam Cork (Composition and Sound), and Mary Johnson (Education) discuss the art of theatre design and aesthetics. Learn how the behind-the-scene team works to craft a masterpiece set for each performance. Doug Witney, UMS Director of Production, hosts the talk.

In Need of a Reality Check

By Mike O’Brien, ‘08 OURTEEN YEARS AGO, MTV PROMised viewers a chance to “find out what happens, when people stop being polite, and start getting real.” And thus The Real World began. And several weeks ago, auditions for the contemporary incarnation of the show were held at Scorekeeper’s—surely the most ‘real’ place on campus. What was once a neat social and anthropological experiment distilled into a half-hour MTV docudrama tackled modern social and political issues via the interactions of the characters. Indeed, after the death of cast member Pedro Zamora, a gay man with HIV, the day after the third season finale (in which Zamora had been featured), a sense of gravity and importance invigorated the show. But as the show progressed, like much else on MTV, The Real World seemed more inclined to include as much contrived sexuality and alcohol as possible. And indeed, casts seem more formulaic than ever, with the predictably naïve southern boy, underestimated blonde girl, jaded brunette, angry minority, fashionable gay man, and so on. But Megan Sleeper, a Bunim-Murray Casting Director who was here in Ann Arbor for the casting call, insists the show is just as organic as ever. Asked whether MTV had been targeting particular groups on campus for auditions, Sleeper said, “We try to pick different cities so different demographics turn out,” adding that they hold casting calls at fifteen to twenty different universities for every year, in addition to leaving open the option for contestants to send in at-will applications. And as much, Sleeper’s claims try to lend credence to that original vision of The Real World. After waiting an hour or so, groups of ten applicants are taken to talk to casting directors as a group, and according to Sleeper, are asked several off-the-cuff, unscripted questions (for instances, about their views of the War in Iraq, or their take on cheating in a relationship).

10.24.06

But these, of course, are thinly veiled screening processes to gauge opinions and observe group dynamics to help the show fit its archetypical characters. Stephanie Swinteck, an Alpha Phi who tried out on a whim and made it through the initial rounds said, “I think they were looking for people who were looking to start controversy and drama,” but continued, “it brought up stuff that I would never think about on my own…I learned a lot about myself from this interview!” Sleeper said that, more than anything, they are looking for new types of characters that haven’t yet been featured on the show. To support that contention, she gave one example—one—of a character who “wasn’t a stereotypical sorority girl” in the Austin season of The Real World. There’s hardly anything real about The Real World today, and that much came across several weeks ago on this campus. Recruirters didn’t exactly target churchgoing, studious engineers by having its audition at Skeep’s. Sleeper contended that the reality of The Real World lies in that it is a pure documentary “with no gimmicks or prizes like other reality shows that pose like game shows.” I’m sure she’s not referring to Real WorldRoad Rules Challenge. The first seasons of this now-institutionalized show had at least some bearing to reality; it could make the claim of broader cultural, social, and political relevance with at least keeping a straight face. But few early twenty-somethings can claim to have experience living in a house with all the groceries paid for, constant drinking, and only having to worry about a cupcake job (well, except for maybe some in the Greek system). The Real World is no longer the attempt at social experiment it once tried to be. The show of Pedro Zamora now has in its DVD franchise greatest-hits packages including “The Greatest Fights” and “Juiciest Hook-Ups.” If this is our projection of how our generation perceives reality, maybe it’s time to really get real. MR

The RSC in A2

By Mary Wilcop, ‘08 OR THE THRID TIME IN FIVE YEARS, the Royal Shakespeare Company returns to “Shakespeare, His players, and the Ann Arbor for another round of performances, RSC—A Brief History” lectures, and interviews. The RSC had its two preSaturday, November 4, 5:00pm, Michigan League vious residencies in Michigan in 2001 and 2003. Hussey Room Their 3-week residency this fall begins October U of M alum Carol Chillington Rutter traces the history 24 and will feature a total 21 performances of of the world famous theatre company. three Shakespearean dramas: Antony and Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and The Tempest. The shows are exclusive to Ann Arbor and “Watching Ourselves Watching Shakewill not be shown anywhere else in the U.S. or speare” Britain. For this reason, thousands of theater Friday, November 10, 9:00am-5:00pm – Saturday, lovers from all over the country will flock to November 11, 9:00am -12:30pm, Rackham Amphi- A2. Michigan and the RSC have a unique relationship unlike any other U.S. institution. This theater special relationship has entitled to Michigan not The two-day event features visiting scholars from throughout the U.S., Canada, and U.K. Thirteen principal only rare shows, but also to the renowned performers who give life to its leading roles. This speakers will incorporate Shakespearean studies, theater year, Michigan welcomes distinguished British history, and performance studies.

actor Patrick Stewart, who will star in Antony and Cleopatra and The Tempest. Best known in the States for his roles in television’s “Star Trek: Next Generation” and the X-Men film series, Stewart is also a classically trained stage actor who has been with the RSC since 1966. Stewart and fellow actors will also be on hand for exclusive interviews before the performances. As stated on its website, the aim of the RSC is to keep modern audiences in touch with Shakespeare as our contemporary. By reviving Shakespeare’s most beloved and important plays, the company hopes to inspire new generations of young actors and writers. The RSC accomplishes this through the many educational opportunities it offers both at home and abroad. The worldrenowned company has been performing since 1879 in Stratford-upon-Avon, hometown of William Shakespeare. Besides its three main stages in Stratford, it has performs in London and Newcastle. MR

P. 11

Arts & Culture

10.24.06

Cohen’s Latest: Politically Incorrect, but oh so Funny

By Blake Emerson, ‘09

Y THE TIME BORAT: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was finished, I couldn’t tell if my stomach was hurting from constant laughter or the disgusting, yet hilarious male nude wrestling scene that is so outrageous that it may be trimmed before its theatrical release. For those of you who have not seen the cult hit Da Ali G Show which aired on HBO, Borat is one of three characters ingeniously created by British comic Sacha Baron Cohen. In the show, Cohen plays journalists in the form of a white British thug, a fashion-crazed homosexual Austrian, and a culturally ignorant anti-Semite from Kazakhstan. In amazing fash-

Movie Review

ion, Cohen scores real interviews with big names like Donald Trump, Noam Chomsky, and Newt Gingrich. Cohen, Jewish himself, has a knack for creating awkwardness through the Jew-hating character Borat, and this is possibly his most intriguing work. After the show was cancelled, Cohen brought Borat to the big screen. The story begins in Borat’s village in Kazakhstan, an absurdly exaggerated interpretation of a backwards culture. Before embarking on his assignment to learn about American culture, he introduces the town rapist and kisses his sister before showing off the cultural gems of his village. The “Running of the Jew,” which satires the “Running of the Bulls” is perhaps the most amusing segment of the opening frames. Borat’s journey begins when he ar-

A “Smoking” Good Time

By Zach Zucker, ‘10

HERE ARE TWO TYPES OF social criticism in the movies. One is the George Clooney kind- gut wrenching drama that causes deep thought and reflection. These kinds of movies win Oscars. The other kind uses comedy as a vehicle to portray the questionable aspects of society. This critique is favored by South Park, Seinfeld, and now Jason Reitman. Reitman, the son of the man who brought the world Animal House and Ghostbusters, brings some more subtle humor to his first wide release picture, Thank You for Smoking, which is now available on DVD. This kind of criticism never tries to take itself too seriously; perhaps this is why Thank You for Smoking is so enjoyable. Smoking takes America inside the world of big tobacco lobbyist Nick Naylor (Aaron Eckhart). The movie, however, takes on a broader role than just criticizing tobacco. The story is built around Naylor, but he just as easily could be replaced by his buddies Polly Bailey (Maria Bello) or Bobby Jay Bliss (David Koechner), lobbyists for the alcohol and firearms industries. Reitman delves deep into the seedy underbelly of corporate lobbying, but does so in a cheerful, upbeat manner. Naylor seems to have it all: money, women, and a good job. The one thing that appears to be missing is a relationship with his son. Thus, he does what any self-respecting tobacco lobbyist would do—he takes his son along with him on his trips,

Movie Review

and works the same magic charm on his boy that he does on the American public. Their burgeoning relationship is a nice side track to the main plot: Nick’s adventures in ensuring that America keeps on smoking. A problem arises, however, when Vermont Senator Ortolan K. Finistirre, cleverly played by William H. Macy, creates a plan that will perhaps curtail smoking once and for all. Finistirre wants to put a skull and crossbones on all packages of cigarettes to label them as poisons. The movie moves quickly, and the film’s willingness to deviate from Hollywood’s standards by refusing to give viewers any clear moral center. Each character has their own goals, and uses everybody else to achieve them. Even Naylor is used by his bosses, “BR” (J.K. Simmons) and the greatest tobacco baron of all, the legendary “Captain,” masterfully played by a legend in his own right, Robert Duvall. Unlike the comparable movie in the dramatic type of criticism, The Insider (a film no less great in its own right), this film not only makes fun of the tobacco industry, but makes fun of itself. Nick knows that he’s full of, in his own words, “b.s.” That doesn’t stop him from loving his job, even if he lies to himself that he does it just “to pay the mortgage”. And Nick’s story parallels that of every other major character in the movie- the seductress reporter played by Katie Holmes, Macy’s Senator, and even the Captain himself. But at the end of the day, Thank You for Smoking is a must see—if not for the social commentary, than strictly for the sheer entertainment value. MR

rives in New York, and there he reveals right funny things, all in a light-hearted common stereotypes about self-centered manner. New Yorkers by being uber-friendly on Perhaps the genius of the movie, the subway. Borat continues down the and the reason it will be such a hit is the eastern seaboard uniqueness of the and into the Deep concept. The only South en route to vague comparison the west coast. that can be drawn Not surprisingly, is a less slapstick, the most memomore intellectual rable parts of the version of Jackmovie come with ass. It takes a spehis experiences in cial actor to keep a the south, when straight face while his own pseudocalling a feminist prejudices make a “pussycat” or the southerners inviting a prostifeel comfortable Warning: Contains sterotypes. May not be tute to a host’s enough to share suitable for small children; U of M students house, all the their own ethnic while convincing slurs. Borat stops everywhere that there the viewers that the behavior is the result is an opportunity to show people’s reac- of a cultural divide. tions to his outrageous behavior, or to Of course, this movie will not win showcase America’s lingering racial and any awards for its plot. Some may argue ethnic prejudices. that Borat’s character is better utilized in Make no mistake: many groups will the truncated Ali G-like segments rather construe this differently. Many activist than in a forced, full-length plot. But groups are already up in arms about the overshadowing its faults is the movie’s politically incorrect nature of the movie. unbelievable ability to keep the audience Not only does this movie take jabs at laughing at every turn. That is, of course, Jews, it also mocks American and Kazakh if you can take a joke. MR culture. Most of us, though, will take this movie as it was probably meant – to show a downright funny character doing down-

The Hold Steady, Live in Detroit for Boys & Girls By Mary Wilcop, ‘08

HE BROOKLYN-BASED HOLD STEADY ARE A FORCE ON THE indie scene. Amusingly, The Hold Steady aren’t the typical indie band. Sure, lead singer Craig Finn rocks the architect rims, but as far as sound, there’s more Bruce Springsteen than Brian Eno in the self-declared bar band. The group received its biggest kick start with hype and tour spots from online indie heavyweights like Pitchfork Media. The quintet seems older than most rock groups with newcomer status, both in appearance and in their classic rock style—since the term “breakout artist” usually means a 10-year-old booty-shorts-clad Lohan sister. But since last year’s album Separation Sunday garnered acclaim from many critics, the media buzz has widened the band’s audience. Their winter tour, which kicked off in Arizona earlier this month, is a 33-date megalith in support of their third album, Boys and Girls in America. And all that less than a month after the end of their summer set. And if The Hold Steady are getting tired of the bar band moniker, Boys and Girls doesn’t show it. The album is replete with triumphant, driving rock anthems, slowing down for sweet, thoughtful ballads like “Citrus” and “First Night.” Finn’s storytelleron-speed singing carries through each song, as humor and sadness combine in bittersweet lyrics about American youth: “Boys and girls in America have such a sad time together/…Sucking off each other at the demonstrations/ Crushing one another with colossal expectations.” Contradictions string through like Finn’s voice, never quite resolving, and lingering on long after the song ends. If you think The Hold Steady is America’s best party band in measly iPod headphones, the show really gets started on stage. Finn squints his eyes and shakes like he’s about to explode as power chords surge through the audience. And you’re just as likely to nudge up against nodding indie kids as maniacal thirty-somethings pumping their fists in the air. MR The Hold Steady will be at the Magic Stick in Detroit Friday, October 27.

P. 12

By Eddie Perry, ‘09

Features

Tiger Stadium, Awaiting Fate, Becomes a Fiscal Burden

minor league teams are much more successful in smaller cities because they do not compete with major league he argument stating that Tiger Stadium should not teams and are located far enough away where the peoonly be saved but reused for baseball purposes ple in that town could easily catch a minor league game appears to be wearing rather than driving all the out its welcome at this way to the closest major stage, seven years since league game. There is a the Tigers left for their reason why the Tigers’ present venue, with the minor league affiliates, city pushing a plan for the AAA Mud Hens and redevelopment which AA Seawolves are located includes at least a partial in Toledo, Ohio and Erie, demolition. Pennsylvania, respectiveEven the stadium’s ly. status as historical could Just over seven years be called into question. have gone by since the The National Trust for last game was played in Historical Preservation is the old stadium. In other an organization founded words, the ballpark on the in 1949 that facilitates the corner of Michigan and maintenance of historic Trumbull has occupied Tiger stadium in the good ol’ days buildings, structures, and space, with little action to neighborhoods all around America, and Tiger Stadium speak of, for those seven years. However, Detroit Mayor does not appear on its latest list of endangered buildings Kwame Kilpatrick has started soliciting developers of the property. Instead of conceiving a plan for the future of Tiger Stadi“There is no reason to have Tiger Stadium um (or lack thereof) before the now pennant-winning Tigers moved stifle the economic potential that Corktown into Comerica Park, Kilpatrick and the Detroit City Council opted to has as a community,” said prospective let the stadium stay quiescent, pay Corktown resident Bridget Horne. Tigers owner Mike Ilitch four hundred thousand dollars a year, and now are planning on using tax doland neighborhoods for Detroit. Granted, to countless lars to “historically dismantle” the stadium. baseball fans Tiger Stadium was a superb venue, but, like Detroit and its ardent Tigers fans have althe Ford Highland Park Model T Plant, the venue can- ways been known to embrace its Tigers and its not be reused for its original purpose; in addition, one former historic venue. However, this does not could say that the latter has a greater significance to the give the government the right to intervene on auto industry that the former has to baseball itself. independently-owned sports teams and use tax dollars “From an to take architectural care of standpoint, the team’s assets. there is no The Kilpatrick Adway it [Tiger ministration has alStadium] can ready given owner be reused. It Mike Ilitch roughly would cost three million dolmuch more lars to technically money in “maintain” Tiger the long run Stadium and is estito keep in mating that the curshape and rent partial destrucwith the tion plan will cost amount of between two and revenue that five million dollars. minor league If these figures are teams draw, accurate, then anyNow the stadium sits abandoned and decaying it would not where between five on the corner of Michigan and Trumbull be worth and eight million it,” said Christopher Christian, University of Michigan dollars will have been spent on Tiger Stadium during its alumnus, when asked about the feasibility of preserv- post-baseball era in total. One more thing: all of this ing the stadium for minor league games. Additionally, money is tax revenue, in spite of Detroit’s treacherous

10.24.06

public school system, broken street lights, aged infrastructure, and an undersized, underpaid police force. Why was the stadium not sold to a private developer as soon as the team left? The city still must sell it to a private firm when a proposed strategy for site development is finally approved, anyway. Millions of city dollars (the ‘upkeep’ dollars from the last seven years) would have been saved, and the area might already have new businesses, something needed in most corners of the city and state. “While I think that the whole situation would be better off if the government stepped aside, at this point I just want to see some action taken because anything is better than idleness. There is no reason to have Tiger Stadium stifle the economic potential that Corktown has as a community,” said prospective Corktown resident Bridget Horne. Corktown is a community encompassed in about a one mile radius of the pitcher’s mound at Tiger Stadium. Geographically, it is separated from the downtown area but has been expanding lately. Without a land-devouring Tiger Stadium and its gruesome parking lots that surround it, Corktown could bridge the gap with residential units, stores, and business buildings. Detroit’s population has steadily declined from

approximately two million people to barely nine-hundred thousand over half a century, and Tiger Stadium, with its wildlife exhibit making its home in the decrepit bleachers, currently obstructs a site for potential population and tax revenue increase within a hopeful section of the city. Detroit cannot fully reawaken if it continues to cling to the past in ways that cannot help it. Tiger Stadium is a precise example of how Detroit needs to leave its old ways behind and reinvent itself yet again. The idea to replace much of the ballpark with economic stimulators is one that the Kilpatrick Administration is finally beginning to grasp. The galling paradox is that it has taken more than seven years to comprehend and will likely demolish millions of crucial tax dollars in the process. MR