In this episode of Fresh Air, Terry Gross interviews Harvard Law Professor Noah Feldman about the Trump administration's actions against Harvard University, including frozen grants, investigations, and attempts to control curriculum and enrollment. Feldman argues that these actions are an assault on academic freedom and democratic values, stemming from Trump's disapproval of the university's viewpoints and policies, particularly concerning diversity and anti-Semitism. Feldman clarifies Harvard's stance on anti-Semitism, the definition it uses, and the complexities of criticism of Israel, while also addressing concerns about discrimination, foreign students, and the broader implications for higher education. The conversation also explores the divisions within the Jewish community regarding Israel and the evolving understanding of Jewish identity.
