Oxford University has unleashed the latest guidance which contains perplexing provisions that advocate for eye contact amongst students. Those not doing so may be accused racism.
Oxford’s University’s Equality and Diversity Unit has insinuated that students who don’t speak directly to people could be deemed as racial microaggression which can lead to ill mental health. Students were also told to desist from asking people where they are originally from.
Fortunately, the Oxford University's Equality and Diversity Unit understands the fact that some people who engage in such things may be entirely well-meaning, and would be horrified to realize that they had caused offense.
The University also emphasized that if words or actions of an individual suggest that they intend to fulfill a negative stereotype, the consequence may be of a different nature.
This comes amidst the accusations that Universities are pandering to the snowflake generation of students, who are seen as over-sensitive and quick to take offense.
One lecturer in higher education at the University of Kent, Dr Joanna Williams, revealed that the guidance was completely ridiculous and will make students hyper-sensitive on matters concerning their interactions with their acquaintances.
Dr. Williams made a statement to The Telegraph saying that people are being accused of a thought crime, adding that they are being accused of thinking incorrect thoughts based on an assumption of where they may or may not be looking.
Some people feel differently concerning the controversial issue. Such include Dr. Williams who is the author of Academic Freedom in an Age of Conformity. Williams pointed out that Oxford University’s guidance was overstepping the mark by telling students how they should feel and think.
Dr. Joanna revealed that instead of people seeing each other as potential friends, equals, the recent guidance re-racializes academia. This is especially true if they force people to see each other as a person of color. The new policy will force people to be put into boxes.
The controversial issue will be very problematic since people can’t relate to each other naturally. Instead, they have rules in the back of their mind and they can’t be spontaneous as their interactions are all overlaid with the desire to follow all these rules.
Cardiff Metropolitan University banned phrases such as right-hand man and gentleman’s agreement under its code of practice on inclusive language. The move took place earlier this year.
Gender-neutral terms, as dictated by the university guidance should be used where possible. Students should not allow their cultural background to affect their choice of words.
Trigger warnings have started being issued by the University of Glasgow for theology students studying the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Students are told they may see distressing images and are given the opportunity to leave.
The Oxford University spokesman made a statement saying that the Equality and Diversity Unit works with University bodies to ensure that the University's pursuit of excellence goes hand in hand with freedom from discrimination and equality of opportunity. The move is commendable, despite the few considerations that were not taken into account.
