The National Tertiary Education Union has launched edXpress, a monthly e-bulletin with news and views on its take what’s happening on campuses around the country. More cuts @ UNE Over 100 general staff at the University of New England (UNE) are slated to lose their jobs through a series of restructures. Thirty-six jobs have already got the chop in human resources, the printery and financial services with more tipped to go in marketing and public affairs and facilities management, BranchPresident Tim Battin reports. Read more Fairer deal over cuts at UTAS NTEU has won a better deal over staff cuts to University of Tasmania’s (UTAS) 2600-strong workforce since notifying … [Read more...]
No, you’re not entitled to your opinion
The Conversation | 5 October 2012 Every year, I try to do at least two things with my students at least once. First, I make a point of addressing them as “philosophers” – a bit cheesy, but hopefully it encourages active learning. Secondly, I say something like this: “I’m sure you’ve heard the expression ‘everyone is entitled to their opinion.’ Perhaps you’ve even said it yourself, maybe to head off an argument or bring one to a close. Well, as soon as you walk into this room, it’s no longer true. You are not entitled to your opinion. You are only entitled to what you can argue for.” A bit harsh? Perhaps, but philosophy teachers owe it to our … [Read more...]