The Sconi

Ryan Owens, 48, a Supreme Court scholar and current Professor of Political Science and Affiliate Faculty in the Law School at UW-Madison, is set to leave for Florida State University this summer. There, he will direct a new Institute for Governance and Civics. In an interview with Badger Institute President Mike Nichols, Owens discussed his conservative views and the academic environment at UW-Madison.

Owens identifies as a "Ronald Reagan conservative" who believes in limited government and individual responsibility. He expressed frustration over what he perceives as academia's tendency to undermine the Constitution. “It’s not perfect, but it’s very, very good,” Owens stated.

When asked about potential ideological indoctrination on campus, Owens acknowledged its presence: “That left-wing, dogmatic orthodoxy exists. It’s omnipresent.” He attributed this to various sources including outside interest groups, administration, students themselves, and some faculty members.

Owens cited an analysis showing that 99.9% of political contributions from UW-Madison faculty went to Democrats. “We wouldn’t tolerate that kind of monopoly... But for some reason, when it comes to political ideology... so many people on the left just accept it as a truism,” he remarked.

He mentioned that his decision to move was partly influenced by Florida State's commitment to intellectual pluralism. "They value different opinions," Owens noted. Additionally, he criticized Madison's local culture as intolerant towards conservatives.

Discussing broader issues within higher education at UW-Madison, Owens pointed out a lack of basic skills among students and an overemphasis on publication for tenure faculty at the expense of teaching quality. He suggested several reforms including greater First Amendment awareness among students and increased transparency in university operations.

Nichols expressed regret over Owens' departure but hoped for his occasional return to help advocate for necessary reforms in Wisconsin’s higher education system.

Owens concluded with optimism about Wisconsin's future: “I hope very much that UW-Madison is able to effectuate some reforms to get it back on track.”

Mike Nichols is the President of the Badger Institute. Permission to reprint is granted provided proper citation of the author and Badger Institute.

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