>In my opinion to not take a position on an issue is to reinforce the status
>quo which is taking a position. Land Grant Universities were created as
>change agents and that is what SA is about. It is about change. To engage
>in the process of change means you have to advocate and discuss change. You
>do it based research. It also means being somewhat of an activist in regard
>to that position to some extent. It is the way things change in the real
world.
>
>It is the main reason that tenure really exits. It is meant to protect
>those who might express unpopular views based on their research. It seems
>to me that that is what is demanded of us when we are supported by
>taxpayers. We have the freedom to do exactly that in fact it is what we
>should do.
In my experience with ag related research and land grant universities, it is
rather uncommon for a particular department to embrace new ideas.
Especially within the ranks. I do not see departments hire individuals with
uncommon ideas. My paradigm is your paradigm or will not have a discussion
with you is more common what I have encountered. This may stem from the
scientific ritual which creates a culture of criticism. I would much rather
have departments with broadminded individuals who are open to new and
uncommon ideas!!