Commentary
In-depth perspectives and critical analysis from faculty, editors, and readers on public affairs, higher education, and Harvard’s evolving mission.
In Federal Court, Harvard and the Government Have Friends
A look at the amicus curiae briefs in Harvard’s funding case
by Tamara Evdokimova
Yesterday’s News
Including profundity and pretzels
Cambridge 02138
Readers’ views on gender gaps, freedom of speech, an editor’s farewell, the hippocampus, Alice Hamilton, standing up to the Trump administration, and more
This is How Universities Die
Higher ed thrived in Berlin and Beijing. Then government stepped in.
by William C. Kirby
An Original Magna Carta, Hidden in Plain Sight
A rare original surfaces at Harvard at an “almost providential” moment.
by Nina Pasquini
Voices Raised about Harvard
Responses to the University’s rejection of federal proposals for intrusive regulation of academic affairs
We Were Students Once...
Young love: the poem, plus enduring lessons from a public-health pioneer
by Primus VI
Alice Hamilton
Brief life of a public-health pioneer and reformer: 1869-1970
by Daniel Stone
Yesterday’s News
Seniors’ uncertain future c. 1940, Harvard Law Review news, and more
Fond Farewell
The long-time editor signs off
Playing Offense
Making the case for higher education, diversity, the humanities, speech, and more—at a perilous time