The affirmative action ruling is big. Now elite colleges need to think bigger.
Preview:
I was sorry but not surprised to see Thursday’s Supreme Court decision disallowing affirmative action in college admissions. It is ironic that a court that regards itself as conservative has taken an action so radical in terms of upsetting long-standing practices and expanding federal power over private institutions. Unless universities now respond dramatically and innovatively, the likely result will be degradation of an American university system that is the envy of the world.
Originally published: July 1, 2023
Author: Lawrence H. Summers
Position: President Emeritus
Institution: Harvard University
Published by: The Washington Post