Schools have been told not to teach contested theories such as white priveldge and approach controversial issues in a balanced way. Who decides what is balanced? When I was appointed as Head of Geography I was asked (rather unfairly) howe I would teach about the National Front. My reply was to say that they were an abhorrent organisation, but I would declare my personal bias (before slagging them off!).
Balanced criticism is a difficult one. Should creationists be able to state their view – I would argue yes as long as the facts from the geological record are stated as well. A balanced and factual manner are also referred to. This Government is a master at manipulating facts. Science has shown many ‘facts’ to be ephemeral. Education is, sorry, should be, all about analysis and reasoning. This government has shown that thinking skills are not needed to be a Cabinet Minister and therefore should be discouraged.
The BBC is running scared as the hawks circle for the kill, the remains to be divided out to media vultures later. The National Trust attacked in press and by vandals for pointing out that the wealth needed to create some of our most beautiful stately homes came from slavery. These are facts that the right wing of the nasty party would like to suppress. Channel 4 is likely to be sold off so rich capitalists can influence its news media.
Just when we need diversity and a variety of opinions and approaches to tackle the chasms ahead – this government is allowing these opportunities to be narrowed. Private enterprise may well come up with a solution to climate change, but we also need to cover the obvious of social behaviour change.