The rise of social media has revolutionized American politics. While some of those implications—increased activism, youth engagement, and misinformation—are well-documented, many of equal importance are often overlooked. In particular, while most are likely familiar with the radicalizing effect of social media (everyone has that Facebook-obsessed uncle), few grasp just how powerfully the magnets of indoctrination […]
Tag: campus politics
A Conversation with UC Berkeley’s Homelessness Outreach Coordinator: The Past and The Future of People’s Park
This interview with UC Berkeley’s Homelessness Outreach Coordinator Ari Neulight was conducted before the university announced a comprehensive housing plan for the current People’s Park residents on March 9th. We hope that a conversation with Mr. Neulight will shed light on the homelessness crisis around the campus and the numerous obstacles that unhoused people in […]
The Fault of the Frequent Protest
It’s been over half a century since the Free Speech Movement gripped UC Berkeley, yet the institution still maintains its reputation for frequent protests and progressive ideology. UC Berkeley has found its name in national headlines throughout the years for mass protests like Occupy Cal and various anti-war movements. The issue is that protests, designed […]
When the Music Turns Off, Matisyahu’s Actions Begin
UC Berkeley’s spacious areas like Memorial Glade and Lower Sproul Hall serve as a center stage for concerts with big name performers. Last April, reggae singer Matisyahu performed a free concert to a large and engaged crowd on Lower Sproul hosted by the Berkeley Hillel and UC Berkeley’s Jewish Student Union. The concert was a […]
The Empty Ballot
On House of Cards, Frank Underwood quipped, “Politicians can’t resist making promises they can’t keep.”[1] As the ASUC elections dawn upon Berkeley, our fledgling politicians await unknowing freshmen on Sproul Plaza, hoping to sell overambitious platforms and promises they won’t be able to fulfill. Those who have survived this rite of passage in previous years avoid […]