The British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal recently dismissed a complaint from a former political science professor against Simon Fraser University (SFU), ruling that classical liberalism does not constitute a recognized political philosophy. The professor argued he was passed over for a tenure-track position due to his classical liberal beliefs, which conflicted with the university's emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). The tribunal decided without a hearing that his beliefs lacked a cohesive foundation and that the complaint had no reasonable prospect of success.
Classical Liberalism: A Misunderstood Philosophy?
Classical liberalism, which emerged during the Enlightenment, centers on individual rights, freedom of conscience and expression, equality before the law, and limits on state power. Despite its profound influence on modern Western societies, the tribunal and SFU appear not to recognize it as a valid political philosophy. This raises questions about the pervasive nature of EDI and its potential to render certain political views invisible.
The Case of Joshua Gordon
Joshua Gordon, the professor in question, initially focused on class-based social justice issues such as affordable housing and labor unions. However, his research did not align with the current academic trend of "activist EDI," which employs critical theory frameworks that categorize people by identity groups and demand adjusted outcomes based on group hierarchy rather than individual merit. In a pluralistic society like Canada, such thinking can be corrosive, according to critics.
Tribunal member Devyn Cousineau noted that Gordon described himself as a classical liberal supporting "mild EDI," meaning a commitment to eliminating overt discrimination and systemic barriers. Yet, this was the only mention of classical liberalism in the entire decision. Cousineau failed to characterize Gordon's opposition to activist EDI as part of a coherent political tradition with centuries of scholarship, suggesting a lack of understanding of the philosophy.
Broader Implications for Academia and Society
Universities have long immersed students in identity-based theories, and graduates now populate institutions that shape public discourse, including media, law, and education. Meanwhile, Marxist educator Paulo Freire's revolutionary praxis from "Pedagogy of the Oppressed" has influenced K–12 education, encouraging students to view society through the lens of oppression. Classical liberalism, often seen by critical theorists as an "oppressor ideology," has been marginalized in curricula.
This case highlights the tension between traditional liberal values and contemporary EDI frameworks. As EDI becomes increasingly pervasive, its political nature may become invisible to those enforcing it, potentially stifling diverse viewpoints and undermining the principles of open debate and academic freedom.
