I don't have a problem in principle with Columbia giving this guy a forum to speak, provided there is a legitimate opportunity for questions. It really is a learning opportunity for students. How many times can you look evil right in the face?
Of course, there are benefits to him. He can say he heroically challenged the US before a major university. No doubt his stature will increase, unless it is a total debacle. I doubt it will be because Columbia will have a squadron of security ready to taser anyone who is impudent to him.
Of course, the real objection is not that he has an opportunity to speak, but that Columbia and other universities shamelessly censor conservative speech, either outright or by tolerating thuggish tactics by leftwing students. I can't see how this will hurt however. Conservatives will be able to point to this speech and demand equal consideration. Of course, they won't get it, but it will serve to highlight the bias of what are supposed to be our great centers of intellectual freedom.
Of course, there are benefits to him. He can say he heroically challenged the US before a major university. No doubt his stature will increase, unless it is a total debacle. I doubt it will be because Columbia will have a squadron of security ready to taser anyone who is impudent to him.
Of course, the real objection is not that he has an opportunity to speak, but that Columbia and other universities shamelessly censor conservative speech, either outright or by tolerating thuggish tactics by leftwing students. I can't see how this will hurt however. Conservatives will be able to point to this speech and demand equal consideration. Of course, they won't get it, but it will serve to highlight the bias of what are supposed to be our great centers of intellectual freedom.