Commentary

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

John Harvard statue beneath a large American flag outside of University Hall

Trump Administration Appeals Order Restoring $2.7 Billion in Funding to Harvard

The appeal, which had been expected, came two days before the deadline to file.

by Jonathan Shaw

Letters to the Editor Harvard Magazine January-February 2025

Correspondence about housing affordability, athletes’ success, antisemitism, teaching reading, and more

Who Should Define Campus Free Speech?

Skirmishing about what it means to protest

The facade of Widener Library with columns and steps with blue sky and trees

Silent Study-Ins

Harvard library protests challenge University regulations.

by Max J. Krupnick

Time To Stand Up

For an Asian American woman, performing comedy is about much more than jokes.  

by Catherine Yeo

Person seated under a tree in a garden with a view of distant hills and a blue sky.

Villa I Tatti: How Donors Influence Harvard's Art, Culture, and Academic Experiences

How gifts shape student experiences, in often unseen ways

by Serena Jampel

Cambridge 02138

Letters on academic freedom, reading, the science of sociability, and more

Colorful metal chairs arranged in a circle on the grass under trees in Harvard Yard. Red brick buildings in the background.

Quiet Conversations that Defined Harvard During a Viral Year

The quiet conversations that defined Harvard during a viral year

by Isabella Cho

Harvard Magazine Reader's Letters

Master Finley, whales’ speech, Harvard values

Harvard Disciplinary Dysfunction

Learning from the spring protest and punishments

Harvard economist Jason Furman on immigration and the U.S. economy.

Harvard economist Jason Furman on immigration and the U.S. economy.

by Olivia Farrar