Cambridge University is increasingly prioritizing political correctness and "fashionable groupthink" over academic rigor, according to author Leo McKinstry. In a critique of the institution where he once studied, McKinstry expresses regret over its perceived shift away from intellectual excellence towards "gesture politics and achingly right-on social justice initiatives."
McKinstry's concerns are highlighted by the recent controversy surrounding Jason Arday, appointed as Cambridge's professor of the Sociology of Education in 2023. Arday, who claimed to have overcome autism and a brain tumor, was presented as a record-breaking, neuro-diverse scholar. However, allegations of plagiarism have emerged, prompting calls for an inquiry. Cambridge has described the attacks on Arday as a "vile smear campaign," a response McKinstry finds unconvincing.
The author points to other incidents he views as indicative of this trend. In 2019, the university rescinded an offer of a visiting fellowship to psychologist Jordan Peterson following complaints from staff about his views on gender. In the same year, research fellow Noah Carl reportedly had his contract terminated at St. Edmund's College after academics accused him of "racist pseudoscience" without providing evidence. McKinstry also notes Jesus College's unsuccessful attempt to remove a memorial to Tobias Rustat, based on claims that he profited from the slave trade, which a court later deemed based on a "false narrative."
McKinstry draws a parallel to a controversy at University College London involving Nobel laureate Professor Tim Hunt. Hunt was forced to resign his honorary fellowship after allegedly making sexist remarks at a conference. McKinstry contrasts Cambridge's alleged "cheerleading" for Arday with the university sector's abandonment of Hunt, suggesting that decisions are increasingly viewed through the lens of identity politics.
McKinstry argues that Arday's academic output itself is of questionable value, characterized by "obscure jargon and meaningless pap." He contrasts this with figures like Professor Hunt, who he believes genuinely advanced scientific knowledge. McKinstry concludes that while Cambridge speaks of "pride" in Arday, "shame would be a more appropriate word" given the circumstances.
The author's own experience with Cambridge began positively, with his admission to Sidney Sussex College being a "proudest moment" of his young life. However, his feelings have since shifted from pride to regret due to the university's perceived embrace of what he terms "liberal groupthink."