The argument that De Genova cannot be terminated because of tenure is a crock. Yes, tenure often protects those teachers who are burned out, incompetent, etc. But, no matter the terms of any tenure, if a teacher’s actions are egregious enough, tenure can be circumvented. There are always grey areas (severe professional misconduct, academic irresponsibility, default of academic integrity, conviction of a felony or other crime involving moral turpitude ....) which allow for tenure considerations to be waived. Tenure is an excellence in academics obstacle, but it is never an insurmountable one. The question is always: will those in positions of power have the resolve/character to invoke the causes for dismissal represented by those grey areas?
Apparently President Bollinger is not intending to spearhead the effort. I can’t help but wonder whether Bollinger is simply backbone-impaired, or whether he may somehow believe that such despicable comments are appropriate at an American institution of higher learning. Either option is not acceptable.
I don’t believe there is a legal name for what De Genova did. But I would rank it right up there with subversion, sedition and treason on the scale of abominations.
Anyone who is an alumnus of, studies at, teaches at, is otherwise employed by, or contributes to Columbia University – and who doesn’t believe that he/she needs to hold the university accountable for this man’s despicable behavior, and demand his removal – is just as culpable as he. Apathetic silence is sometimes the most insidious form of approval.
As usual Joanie ... you elequance with words hits the nail square on the head. We cannot be apathetic about this type of thing ... we must raise our voices and use our influence to insure that tangible consequences result from such behaviour. Else, we would lose the Republic.
Is treason a legal term?