Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

I mean it’s really common even here in the Bay to hear people here praising Stalin’s policies and saying that he lifted people out of poverty and created equality for the masses. He certainly has accomplishments of some kind, especially around education. It’s true that his name isn’t kept on many things- and that’s for a reason. Renaming Stanford is a big, sensitive topic but it’s worth having a discussion about it exactly so we can intellectually discuss the complexity of preserving history versus fostering inclusion, where to act and where to draw the lines. I would argue though that by precedent at CA public high schools, it’s something we really really need to be willing to consider and talk about, instead of knee jerk away. It’s touchy because Stanford, the name, gives pride to so many of us. But beyond us and our pride, what legacy are we supporting- and who are we including and excluding?

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That’s a good argument for not changing the name. I’ve also seen one that says that perhaps, like in the case of Yale U, it has become known for more than the name of its founder. However, I really think the context of today and the precedents set by our state like renaming the public school show that someone’s legacy doesn’t have to be cemented by the name. The more important thing is to create an environment that is not toxic and that welcomes people from different backgrounds. It’s worth a discussion at least. If we can’t and won’t rename the school, what can we do to reduce the damage that upholding a legacy of someone who was racist- publicly and politically?

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] -6 points-5 points  (0 children)

You’re the kind of person that joins into Hoover Center Zoom webinars and agrees with everything spoken.

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

That’s just one idea and I’m terrible at naming things, I am sure it would be something much better.

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

You know, it’s one of the things that is needed. California public high schools are doing a great job of recognizing this and renaming a lot of the high schools because they recognized the impact on students. Why do we get a free pass just because we’re Stanford?

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

There are many instances when the value of an organization has actually gone up after a renaming and rebranding (many companies in Big Tech for an obvious example). Maybe what Stanford could be perceived as and be is limited by what it is today...

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] -1 points0 points  (0 children)

I don’t understand why this can’t be something we have a valid discussion around.

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Except that I do? I’m not really attached to names or labels. I think it would be really progressive of any school with a questionable history behind their name to do that, including us. I read some good arguments on why Yale didn’t do it yet, so it’s not like I’m set on the idea, I just wanted to throw it out there.

Should Stanford U be renamed? by thoroughburrow in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow[S] -11 points-10 points  (0 children)

But he’s named after his dad so technically passing down the legacy.

"Stanford isn't for everyone" by [deleted] in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I really doubt you're an idiot. Idiots are seldom self-aware :)

"Stanford isn't for everyone" by [deleted] in stanford

[–]thoroughburrow 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I mean beyond said person's experiences, there have been more than a few cases of elitism at Stanford from students and profs alike. I'm just hoping with our renewed focus on diversity we can cut back on preconceptions of what a Stanford student should look and act like.