Columbia University is making significant changes to its Middle Eastern studies program, focusing on Israel and addressing concerns raised by the federal government and Jewish leaders following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. The provost's regional review committee has proposed a series of recommendations, including a closer collaboration with the Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies (IIJS) through visiting professorships. This initiative aims to enhance the department's expertise and provide a more comprehensive understanding of modern Israel's history.
The committee's report highlights the need for a more balanced approach to Middle Eastern studies, addressing the criticism that the field often portrays Israel as the perpetual villain. It emphasizes the importance of ideological diversity, particularly in the absence of full-time tenure-track faculty with expertise in Middle East history and politics that is not explicitly anti-Zionist. This move comes in response to a December report by a Columbia University task force, which identified a lack of such expertise, leading to a one-sided portrayal of Israel in courses.
To address this, the committee suggests appointing a visiting professor to teach about economic and policy issues in Israel, scheduled to begin this fall. The School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) is also considering launching a search for a permanent faculty member to collaborate with IIJS. Additionally, the committee proposes offering a new undergraduate major or minor in Middle East social sciences and policy, further enhancing the department's focus on Israel.
However, the changes have sparked controversy. Some faculty members in Middle Eastern studies have praised the October 7 attacks as 'resistance' against the 'settler-colonial' Israeli state. This view has raised concerns about the department's ability to provide an unbiased education. Furthermore, two professors under consideration for the Edward Said professorship in modern Arab studies and literature have faced disciplinary action for participating in antisemitic and anti-Israel activities, adding to the ongoing debate.
Despite the controversy, Columbia University's efforts to refocus Middle Eastern studies on Israel reflect a commitment to providing a more comprehensive and balanced education. The university aims to address the lack of ideological diversity and ensure that students receive a well-rounded understanding of the region, including the complexities and nuances surrounding Israel.
