Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
As concerns about viewpoint diversity in higher education grow, some scholars have proposed a bold new idea: applying a system of checks and balances to academic hiring and governance. Could such an approach help mitigate political homogeneity and strengthen the academy’s credibility? Or would it introduce new challenges for institutional autonomy and academic freedom?
Join Heterodox Academy for a thought-provoking discussion featuring the authors of Higher Ed Needs Checks and Balances, a recent opinion piece exploring this proposal. Panelists Michael Jindra (Boston University), Jacob Mackey (Occidental College), and Lawrence Eppard (Shippensburg University) will unpack their argument for a more structured approach to ensuring viewpoint diversity in academia. Moderated by HxA Executive Director Michael Regnier, this conversation will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of introducing structural reforms to hiring and departmental decision-making.
This one-hour webinar is open to the public and will include audience Q&A. Register now to join in on the discussion. us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bKodSYaxR6u1M9TgEB5Kbw
As concerns about viewpoint diversity in higher education grow, some scholars have proposed a bold new idea: applying a system of checks and balances to academic hiring and governance. Could such an approach help mitigate political homogeneity and strengthen the academy’s credibility? Or would it introduce new challenges for institutional autonomy and academic freedom?
Join Heterodox Academy for a thought-provoking discussion featuring the authors of Higher Ed Needs Checks and Balances, a recent opinion piece exploring this proposal. Panelists Michael Jindra (Boston University), Jacob Mackey (Occidental College), and Lawrence Eppard (Shippensburg University) will unpack their argument for a more structured approach to ensuring viewpoint diversity in academia. Moderated by HxA Executive Director Michael Regnier, this conversation will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of introducing structural reforms to hiring and departmental decision-making.
This one-hour webinar is open to the public and will include audience Q&A. Register now to join in on the discussion. us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_bKodSYaxR6u1M9TgEB5Kbw










