Commentary

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

Two swans forming a heart shape with their necks, floating on water.

Harvard Magazine Questionnaire: Animal Love Stories

Tell us a story about the unique relationships between the animals in your life.

An illustration by James Steinberg shows a heavenly hand extending down to the U.S. Capitol and attempting to influence members of Congress

Benjamin Friedman on faith and American socioeconomic policy

How faith shapes economic and social policy

Letters from our readers

Stimulus funds, meritocracy, enlarging history, and more

Portrait photograph of Harvard president Lawrence S. Bacow

The View from Mass Hall

President Bacow on the engaged upside to online teaching and learning

by Lawrence S. Bacow

Multiple crises confront Harvard

Educational, financial, political, and values issues challenge Harvard’s leaders—and the University community.

Drawing of a college student seated at her desk in her bedroom at home, looking at images of friends on her computer screen. On the desk are a book and a bowl of salad, reflecting recommendations made by friends previously.

The Undergraduate considers friendships on and away from campus

The Undergraduate considers friendships on and away from campus.

by Meena Venkataramanan

The author's dog, Yuki, sits on the grass during a walk in the park.

In Search of Spontaneity

A new College semester begins, at home. 

by Matteo Wong

Graphic with red background that reads: At Home with Harvard: Back to School

At Home with Harvard: Back to School

Our coverage of the freshman experience at Harvard

Colorful composite drawing of the author, dressed in cap and gown, at home in Cambridge, with scenes of blossoming trees and a yellow moving truck visible through the window.

What I Learned From a Forced Return to Slowness

The pandemic sent a Harvard senior back to his hometown—just as the flowers started blooming.

by Drew Pendergrass

Photographs of the new student writing fellows Che Applewhaite and Mean Venkataramanan

Harvard Magazine’s 2020-2021 Ledecky Undergraduate Fellows

The 2020-2021 Ledecky Undergraduate Fellows

Photograph of students in caps and gowns graduating from college

Excerpt from “Higher Education,” by Derek Bok

Derek Bok on curriculum reform