Oregon — A new report from the National Association of Scholars critical of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) delves into how the university’s long-standing commitment to science and open inquiry has been eroded by decades of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that have transformed into what the authors describe as an “authoritarian regime.”
The report traces the evolution of DEI programs at MIT over the past 30 years, arguing that what began as well-intentioned efforts toward fairness and inclusion have instead created a culture of ideological conformity that stifles dissent and restricts free expression.
According to the report, early debates over affirmative action and inclusion have given way to rigid enforcement of political orthodoxy on issues of race, gender, and identity. The authors contend that DEI at MIT has splintered into two movements, one rooted in radical gender and sexual identity politics and another that aligns with so-called “decolonization” activism, which the report accuses of justifying violence and antisemitism.
The document cites incidents at MIT including controversial campus speakers, politically charged rhetoric, and students advocating violence, which it says exemplify the “true nature” of DEI culture. It also points to administrative policies such as diversity statements for hiring and ideological training requirements as evidence of a systemic problem.
While noting some recent signs of change, such as MIT’s decision to drop mandatory diversity statements, the report warns that these steps may represent efforts to conceal DEI’s influence rather than a genuine shift toward neutrality. The authors argue that meaningful reform will require confronting the ideological foundations of DEI and removing its most zealous advocates from positions of authority.
The report concludes by urging the MIT community to reassert its commitment to open inquiry, free speech, and scientific rigor, echoing recommendations from the MIT Free Speech Alliance to strengthen viewpoint diversity and civil discourse on campus.
“MIT stands at a crossroads,” the report states. “It can either reaffirm its mission of scientific education and research or allow ideological orthodoxy to consume its intellectual integrity and reputation.”
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