384. This Man Ended Affirmative Action | Dr. Peter Arcidiacono | The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast

Intro

In this episode of “The Jordan B. Peterson Podcast,” Dr. Jordan Peterson interviews Dr. Peter Arcidiacono, an economics professor who played a significant role in the recent Supreme Court decision to end race-based affirmative action. They delve into the complexities of affirmative action in higher education, discussing issues of Asian discrimination, racial preferences, and the need for objective testing methods in college admissions.

Main Takeaways

Affirmative Action in Higher Education

• Dr. Arcidiacono’s research played a role in the recent Supreme Court decision to end race-based affirmative action (00:00:00 – 00:00:59)
• Asian discrimination and the size of racial preferences at Harvard were key issues in the Harvard and UNC Students for Fair Admissions cases (00:04:00 – 00:04:59)
• The Supreme Court has emphasized the need to achieve diversity without explicitly using race (Start: 00:05:00, End: 00:05:59)
• UNC faced claims of large racial preferences and the use of race-neutral alternatives (00:06:00 – 00:06:59)

The Need for Objective Testing Methods

• Objective testing methods, including personality and cognitive assessments, can help select candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds (00:10:00 – 00:11:59)
• Objective tests predict and are reliable and valid, making them better than other methods (00:11:00 – 00:11:59)
• Preferential access at universities is given to children of faculty members, donors, and athletes, creating an unfair system (00:12:00 – 00:12:59)
• Test-based admissions are a clear alternative to holistic evaluation but are often seen as favoring the rich (00:17:00 – 00:17:59)

Challenges in College Admissions and Academic Success

• Different academic disciplines require varying levels of intellectual horsepower (00:21:00 – 00:21:59)
• Placing a child in a challenging environment without being at the bottom is important for personal growth and success (00:33:00 – 00:33:59)
• Addressing systemic problems without invasive intervention or victim blaming is challenging (00:47:00 – 00:48:59)
• Affirmative action for doctors can be beneficial for black patients, as they are more likely to follow instructions from a black doctor (00:50:00 – 00:50:59)

Controversies and Criticisms

• Discrimination against Asian Americans in college admissions without connections through legacy and recruited athletes (01:08:00 – 01:08:59)
• Interpretation of research results and biases in court cases (Start: 01:12:00, End: 01:12:59)
• Using fear as a motivation in research and the importance of peer-reviewed journals (Start: 01:16:00, End: 01:16:59)
• Universities’ response to diversity issues and the potential impact on admissions (Start: 01:26:00, End: 01:26:59)

Summary

Affirmative Action in Higher Education

Dr. Peter Arcidiacono, an economics professor, shares his insights into the recent Supreme Court decision to end race-based affirmative action. His research played a role in these cases, particularly in highlighting issues of Asian discrimination and the size of racial preferences at Harvard and UNC. The Supreme Court has emphasized the need for diversity without explicitly using race, and universities have faced claims of large racial preferences and the use of race-neutral alternatives.

The Need for Objective Testing Methods

Dr. Arcidiacono discusses the importance of objective testing methods in college admissions. Objective tests, including personality and cognitive assessments, can help identify individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds who have the potential for academic and professional success. These tests are reliable and valid, making them better than other methods. However, preferential access given to children of faculty members, donors, and athletes raises concerns about fairness in the admissions process.

Challenges in College Admissions and Academic Success

The selection process for college admissions and academic success face various challenges. Different academic disciplines require varying levels of intellectual horsepower, and placing a child in a challenging environment without being at the bottom is crucial for personal growth and success. Addressing systemic problems without invasive intervention or victim blaming is challenging, and affirmative action for doctors can be beneficial for black patients. However, the use of objective testing methods and addressing systemic issues can help improve outcomes.

Controversies and Criticisms

The controversies and criticisms surrounding college admissions and affirmative action are discussed. Discrimination against Asian Americans in college admissions, particularly without connections through legacy and recruited athletes, is a significant concern. The interpretation of research results and biases in court cases also play a role. The use of fear as a motivation in research and the importance of peer-reviewed journals are highlighted. Additionally, universities’ responses to diversity issues and the potential impact on admissions are explored.

Conclusion

Dr. Peter Arcidiacono’s insights into affirmative action in higher education shed light on the complexities and challenges faced by universities in achieving diversity. The need for objective testing methods, addressing systemic issues, and ensuring fairness in the admissions process are crucial for improving outcomes. While controversies and criticisms exist, a balanced and evidence-based approach can lead to a more equitable and effective system of college admissions.