Why Are Artists and Academics Predominantly Left-Leaning in Society?

It's often observed that artists and academic individuals lean more towards the left side of the political spectrum. But why is this the case? This article explores the reasons behind this phenomenon, examining the education and career paths that contribute to such a distribution of political views.

The Educated Elite and Political Orientation

One of the primary reasons for the predominance of left-leaning views in academia and the arts is the educational environment. Generally, those who pursue higher education often exhibit a more humane and considerate stance towards societal issues, reflecting an ideology that prioritizes social justice and equality.

Artistic and academic pursuits often attract individuals who are more critical of the existing power structures and inclined towards finding alternative, equitable solutions. This can be attributed to the social and cultural focus that characterizes these fields, which typically involve the exploration of social issues, humanism, and diversity.

The Impact of Education on Political Views

Over the past few decades, academic institutions, particularly in the humanities and social sciences, have placed significant emphasis on diversity and inclusion. This focus has brought about a more diverse set of voices and perspectives, with an increased representation of minorities who also tend to lean left. However, it's important to note that there are exceptions, such as some East Asian, South Asian, Arab, and Jewish individuals who maintain more traditionally right-leaning views.

Academic departments that were predominantly white and male, such as many art and English literature departments in the 1970s, have evolved to include a greater number of women and people of color. This shift not only reflects a commitment to inclusivity but also means that these departments are likely to have more left-leaning individuals among their faculty and students.

The Prevalence of Left-Leaning in Specific Fields

While many academic and artistic individuals lean left, there are still conservative voices present. However, these voices are increasingly in the minority. For instance, at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), a relatively conservative institution for art schools, there are still some conservative professors and staff members. Similarly, at the University of Florida, there are conservative voices in engineering and agricultural fields.

One contributing factor to the predominance of left-leaning views in academia and the arts is the professional choice of individuals with conservative views. Many conservatives opt for career paths that do not necessarily include academia or the arts, such as engineering or agriculture, due to various personal or societal reasons. This means that their viewpoints are less likely to be represented in these fields.

Opportunities and Challenges for Conservative Artists

It's worth noting that conservative artists may still exist but are less likely to be represented in academic settings. Conservatism in the arts and literature, when it does occur, often manifests in a more traditional, formal style, which is not always aligned with the current educational and cultural trends that favor diversity and inclusivity.

Conservative artists face challenges in gaining representation in academia, partly due to the perception of their work not aligning with contemporary critical and political discourses. This disparity highlights the need for a more balanced representation of diverse perspectives in both academic and artistic circles.

Conclusion

The predominance of left-leaning views in academia and the arts is a result of a combination of factors, including the types of individuals who pursue these fields, the focus on diversity and inclusion, and career choices. While it is important to acknowledge the benefits of a more diverse and inclusive academic environment, it is equally crucial to ensure that all perspectives are considered and represented.

Ultimately, fostering a more balanced and inclusive approach will lead to a richer and more diverse academic and artistic landscape that reflects the full spectrum of human thought and experience.