Commentary
Following the Supreme Court decision finding preferential treatment, i.e., affirmative action, in college admissions unconstitutional, the president of Harvard issued a statement to “Members of the Harvard Community.”
This statement tells us how those managing one of the nation’s most prestigious universities understand justice, knowledge, and learning.
First, let’s consider what Harvard’s president does not say, which is to recognize the importance of “equal protection.”
The unconstitutionality of affirmative action, per the court, follows from the 14th Amendment requiring “equal protection of the laws.”
Where does this idea of “equal protection” come from?
If we look in our Bible, in the book of Exodus, judges are directed to apply the law equally to all, and not give special treatment to the poor….