ABSTRACT

In American society, colleges and universities have an acknowledged role in developing social and political values. Whether colleges and universities as institutions should play that role has long been a matter of debate, but there can be no question that faculty members and students have been the primary instruments through which these institutions have voiced concerns about society. College classrooms are inherently spaces for intellectual discussion and debate, often on controversial issues. It is the professor's responsibility to create an environment in which students feel comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions, particularly unpopular ones. A professor should encourage students to think independently and without constraints. Some argue that the candidacy and presidency of Donald Trump have created a new ethical dilemma for professors. The point of this chapter is not to simply criticize Trump, but by comparing him with other presidents, explain how the system depends on the beliefs of the people and the character of their leaders.