The Briefing with Albert Mohler – November 20, 2024

Host: R. Albert Mohler, Jr.
Title: Cultural Commentary from a Biblical Perspective
Episode Release Date: November 20, 2024

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The Briefing, R. Albert Mohler, Jr. delves into the contentious landscape of higher education policies in the United States, particularly focusing on the clash between conservative and progressive ideologies. Mohler examines recent headlines, such as USA Today's "Biden's Higher Education Policies at Risk," and explores the broader implications of federal involvement in education.

Part 1: The Battle Over Education Policies

Mohler begins by discussing the stark contrasts between the two major political parties regarding education. He emphasizes that while both parties use the term "education," their underlying worldviews differ fundamentally.

• Key Insight: "When you look at the two parties in the United States, you’re looking at two increasingly discernible moral worldviews."
  (00:30)

He argues that education has become a battleground for broader cultural and moral disputes, with conservatives increasingly wary of government involvement in schooling.

• Quote: "The division on the question of education is as revealing and as important as almost any other issue."
  (02:15)

Mohler traces the federal government's expanding role in education back to the establishment of the Department of Education under President Jimmy Carter, highlighting the resistance from conservatives who view this as an overreach.

• Historical Context: "In the 1970s, education was something assigned to and under the power and supervision of the states... the Department of Education threatened the role of the states."
  (05:45)

Part 2: The Impact of Potential Administrative Changes

With the election of President Donald Trump, there is speculation about dismantling the Department of Education. Mohler scrutinizes the feasibility and implications of such an action.

• Analysis: "President Trump cannot unilaterally dismantle a federal department; it would require congressional action, which is politically unlikely."
  (09:10)

He cautions that even if the Department were dismantled, the entrenched ideologies within educational institutions would remain largely unchanged.

• Concern: "Dismantling the Department of Education... wouldn’t solve the problem because many of the same people and ideologies are going to be in place."
  (11:50)

Part 3: The Evolution of Educational Control

Mohler explores how progressive ideologies have historically sought to shape education to produce desired citizenry, citing educational theorist John Dewey's influence.

• Quote: "Public schools should separate children from the prejudices of their parents."
  (15:20)

He criticizes the left's control over educational curricula and teacher certification processes, arguing that this centralization promotes a homogenized, left-leaning worldview across the nation’s schools.

• Insight: "The left has increased its control over public schools by influencing the certification and education of teachers."
  (18:35)

Part 4: Case Study – University of North Texas and DEI Policies

Mohler highlights a recent controversy at the University of North Texas (UNT) where course titles were altered to comply with a state ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

• Headline Analysis: "UNT Courses Renamed to Erase Race Equity to Comply with DEI Ban."
  (22:00)

He questions whether these changes are merely superficial or indicative of a deeper shift in educational substance, ultimately positing that altering terminology does little to change underlying ideologies.

• Critical Observation: "Changing the title isn't going to change the substance. The real problem is the basic secular radical orthodoxies in place."
  (27:40)

Part 5: Broader Cultural Implications – Scientific American’s Editorial Shift

The episode transitions to discuss the resignation of Laura Hellmuth, Editor-in-Chief of Scientific American, following her controversial comments about Donald Trump voters.

• Incident Overview: Hellmuth referred to Trump voters as the "dumbest, most bigoted group and fascist," leading to her departure.
  (33:15)

Mohler uses this event to illustrate the increasing polarization within academic and scientific institutions, emphasizing concerns about censorship and ideological conformity.

• Quote from Scientific American President: "We thank Laura for her four years... We wish her well for the future."
  (35:50)

He notes the rarity of Scientific American endorsing a political candidate, highlighting their recent endorsement of Kamala Harris as a significant departure from tradition.

• Historical Context: "For only the second time in our magazine's 179-year history, the editors of Scientific American are endorsing a candidate for president."
  (38:05)

Part 6: Linguistic Inclusivity in Scientific Communication

Mohler touches on a publication in Nature urging meteorologists to use non-region-specific terminology for seasons to promote inclusivity.

• Article Summary: Nature published an article advocating for the use of specific dates rather than traditional season names to accommodate global audiences.
  (41:20)

He critiques this approach as unnecessary and rooted in a Euro-American-centric perspective, questioning the efficacy and intent behind such linguistic changes.

• Quote from Nature Article: "Avoiding naming seasons for events or communication is a small step but necessary and inclusive."
  (43:40)

Part 7: Reflections on Atheism and Faith

Mohler concludes the episode with an obituary for Kenneth Bronstein, an atheist who highlighted the fragmented nature of atheist organizations.

• Obituary Insights: Bronstein remarked, "We have faith, just not faith in God," illustrating the inherent reliance on belief systems, even outside religious frameworks.
  (47:25)

He underscores the philosophical challenges atheists face in forming cohesive worldviews without a central deity, contrasting this with biblical teachings on faith.

• Theological Perspective: "You can't operate as a human being without certain presuppositions and taken-for-granted realities."
  (49:00)

Conclusion

Albert Mohler wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of understanding and addressing the underlying moral and ideological shifts within the American educational system and broader cultural institutions. He emphasizes the need for active engagement and disruption to counteract the entrenched progressive ideologies.

• Final Thought: "The bureaucrats are simply going to win. The professional educators are still going to be in virtually unrivaled control, and that's exactly what they want."
  (52:45)

Mohler encourages listeners to stay informed and proactive in advocating for educational policies that align with conservative and biblical values.

For More Information:

• Website: albertmuhler.com
• Twitter/X: twitter.com/RAlbertMohler
• Southern Baptist Theological Seminary: spts.edu
• Boice College: boycecollege.com

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the key discussions and insights presented by R. Albert Mohler, Jr. in the November 20, 2024 episode of The Briefing. For a deeper understanding, listening to the full episode is recommended.