Commentary

In-depth perspectives and critical analysis from faculty, editors, and readers on public affairs, higher education, and Harvard’s evolving mission.

Getting to Mars (for Real)

Humans have been dreaming of living on the Red Planet for decades. Harvard researchers are on the case.

by Olivia Farrar

ManyVoices

On speaking out—on Harvard’s behalf

by Lawrence S. Bacow

How will Harvard change post-coronavirus?

Opportunities in admissions, online degrees, research, and more

Documenting New England’s Unseen

Seeking mentorship as a student of color, and finding a calling in the arts

by Che Applewhaite

Forum: Is Harvard Complacent?

Considering fundamental change in the wake of the pandemic

by Brian Rosenberg

Governance Reform and Shared Value

Michael Porter on the new business agenda

by Juliet Isselbacher

A New Way

President Bacow on exploring better work-life balance after the pandemic

by Lawrence S. Bacow

Letters from our readers

A standard-setter retires—plus U.S. presidential debates, Overseer elections, admissions biases

Civic leaders, and myths about undergraduate teaching

Corporation members’ civic-mindedness, and undergraduate education at research universities

Pondering the Extracurricular “Founders” Puzzle

Why do so many Harvard students start clubs, instead of joining them?

by Meena Venkataramanan

Open Book: the case for commitment

Pete Davis expands on his Commencement address.