For those that don’t know, I am a philosopher. In my studies, I have dedicated a huge portion of my time to reading about postmodernism, humanity, and ethics. Of those three, postmodernism has consumed most of my reading. Now, this isn’t because I’m postmodern, but instead because I see a threat and I want to know everything I can about postmodernism. I write all of that simply so I can point out that I am not opposed to reading books that oppose my viewpoint; instead, I think everyone should engage in such an activity.
At the same time, I am greatly concerned when the National Education Association (NEA) encourages teachers to read Saul Alinsky and to pass such knowledge onto their students. It is not a matter of, “Here is someone who influences a number of people today,” but instead, “Here is something you should read and put into practice.” Considering Alinsky was a liberal and hated conservatism, it is a blatant endorsement for liberalism. On top of all that, it’s a support for someone who proposes radical violence. As quoted from the NEA’s own website:
“The Radical may resort to the sword but when he does he is not filled with hatred against those individuals whom he attacks. He hates these individuals not as persons but as symbols representing ideas or interests which he believes to be inimical to the welfare of the people.”
Though there are certainly things worth fighting for and dying for, Alisnsky is calling for a war-like change that Lenin and Mao brought about. When the American colonists rose up against their oppressors, they did so for freedom. What Alinsky is supporting goes beyond an armed revolution in that it would requires the deaths of anyone who happens to be conservative. Not because of the person, but because of the ideology that the person represents. That is what the NEA wants teachers to read and to encourage students to read as well.
