The Landscape of Conservative Universities in America

Introduction

When discussing conservative universities in America, the debate often revolves around which institutions exemplify the most extreme or most influential conservatism. This article explores the landscape of conservative higher education, focusing on universities known for their right-wing leanings, their official views, and their political influence.

Universities Known for Right-Wing Leanings

There are several universities in America that are known for their conservative leanings, though the term "right-wing" might be misleading. These institutions often have strong libertarian or Christian foundations, rather than traditional right-wing ideologies. Among these are:

Hillsdale College

Hillsdale College, a private liberal arts college in Michigan, is often cited as one of the most conservative universities in the United States. It is Liberals need not apply, as it explicitly states that only those who align with the college's principles can be admitted.

Hillsdale is more libertarian in nature, emphasizing individual liberty and limited government. The college has a strong emphasis on rigorous academic standards and is known for its rigorous admissions process. The campus is steeped in conservative ideology, making it a destination for students seeking a distinctly right-wing educational experience.

Liberity University

Liberity University, founded by Jerry Falwell Jr., is known for its strong Christian conservative ethos. While it promotes conservative values, the political leanings of its students and faculty can vary. The university is known for its conservative professors and for its focus on Christian values in addition to traditional liberal arts education.

The Citadel and Virginia Military Institute (VMI)

The Citadel in South Carolina and Virginia Military Institute (VMI) are senior military colleges that inculcate a strong conservative ethos. Both institutions have a tradition of producing military leaders who are either politically conservative or follow a distinct conservative ideology. These military academies are known for their strict discipline and rigorous training, which is often reflected in the political leanings of their alumni.

Texas AM University

Texas AM University, with over 68,000 students, is one of the largest and most conservative universities in the country. It has a significant influence in the oil and petrochemical industries, known as the "Aggie mafia." This network of alumni extends from the North Slope of Alaska to the Persian Gulf, making it a powerhouse in conservative political circles.

Universities with Significant Political Influence

The term "influential" can be interpreted in different ways, but two types of conservative universities stand out:

Explicitly Conservative or Christian Universities

Hillsdale College, led by President Larry P. Arnn, is a prime example of an explicitly conservative university. Arnn is a well-known conservative academic, but his impact is primarily within the movement conservatism. Other institutions like Pepperdine University also hire conservative scholars to bolster their academic reputation, such as James Q. Wilson, a leading figure in public administration.

Universities with Strong Conservative Ghettos

In terms of raw political influence, some of the most impactful conservative universities are:

Stanford University, home to the Hoover Institution, a research institution influential in conservative thinking. Princeton University, known for the presence of Robert George, who has significant influence in natural law arguments. Yale University, with its Buckley Club and Yale Political Union, which have a strong conservative presence among students and faculty. Harvard University, with key conservative academics like Harvey Mansfield, who significantly shape conservative thought.

These institutions not only attract conservative students but also produce influential alumni who contribute to the broader conservative movement through their work in politics and academia.

Student Outcomes and Academic Impact

The impact of these conservative universities on their students varies. Students from different institutions often emerge with distinct perspectives and strengths:

Hillsdale College students tend to be well-read and open-minded. Ivy League students (e.g., Harvard, Yale) are often forthright and opinionated, adhering closely to the influential professors they encounter. Princeton conservatives are more likely to believe in natural law arguments due to Robert George's influence. Yale's Catholic community may lean towards far-left economics and far-right social policies.

While these molds can be beneficial for producing effective conservative thinkers and activists, they can also lead to intellectual stagnation and a narrow worldview.

In conclusion, the landscape of conservative universities in America is diverse, spanning from explicitly conservative institutions to those with strong conservative ghettos. Each institution offers a unique educational experience and produces students who significantly contribute to the broader conservative movement.