The Origin of Student Debt: Reagan Adviser Warned Free College Would Create a Dangerous Educated Proletariat
Context and Current Relevance
Student Debt Crisis: President Joe Biden announced federal cancellation of a portion of outstanding student debt, highlighting the issue of Americans owing over $1.6 trillion for higher education.
Historical Background
Ronald Reagan's Governorship: In 1970, Reagan's reelection campaign as California's governor involved controversial actions against the University of California system, including shutting down campuses amid Vietnam War protests.
Roger A. Freeman's Perspective
Freeman's Warning: Education adviser Freeman claimed that free education would lead to an 'educated proletariat,' seen as dangerous and linked to unemployment.
Historical Reference: Freeman cited the rise of fascism in Germany as a similar situation.
Policy Shifts Under Reagan
Cutbacks and Tuition: Reagan pushed for reduced state funding for public colleges, advocating for tuition fees supplemented by loans.
FBI Involvement: Reagan cooperated with the FBI regarding concerns about protests and leadership at UC Berkeley.
Broader Conservative Movement
Nixon and Agnew: President Nixon and Vice President Agnew echoed concerns over college protests and admissions policies.
Intellectual Support: Conservatives saw free education as creating unrealistic expectations among working-class students.
Shift in U.S. Education Policy
From Free Education to Student Debt: Pre-1970s, bipartisan support existed for state-funded education. Post-Reagan, significant increase in tuition and student debt.
2007-2009 Recession: Accelerated student debt growth due to state funding cuts for colleges.
Current Crisis and Reflections
Biden's Actions: Viewed as a temporary solution to a longstanding crisis.
James Madison's Vision: Historical advocacy for accessible education to empower citizens.
Future Path: Suggests reviving the vision of a well-educated populace as a national asset rather than a threat, with costs shared by society.