Commentary
In-depth perspectives and critical analysis from faculty, editors, and readers on public affairs, higher education, and Harvard’s evolving mission.
I Used to Think AI Could Make Me a Better Writer
A former Harvard College writing tutor changes her mind on LLMs.
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?
Open Book: the case for commitment
Pete Davis expands on his Commencement address.
Assessing gender and racial equality today
A discussion on progress and retreat with Danielle Allen, Margaret Marshall, and Jane Mendillo
Popping the Harvard Bubble
A senior’s last semester expands her sense of adventure and personhood.
Letters from our readers
"Shoddy," maskupmanship, American exceptionalism
Humanities and democratic discourse belong together
Active citizens are humanists.
by Doris Sommer
The Racial Tensions That Roiled Texas
Annette Gordon-Reed on the real history of Texas, and Juneteenth
The View from Mass Hall
President Bacow on the principles by which to steer the University