Point Park class needs adjustments

In American terms, the word “minority” has become synonymous with “disadvantaged.” But Point… In American terms, the word “minority” has become synonymous with “disadvantaged.” But Point Park College now offers a class that challenges widely accepted notions by focusing on the small group of individuals that determine the course of the nation.

The class, titled Wealthy White Males, can be found in the school’s minority studies program. It has caused an interesting discussion since its advent this fall. Some are calling it worthwhile while others say it has no academic value, but everyone should be able to agree that some changes are needed.

The course is taught by Channa Newman, who students have described as liberal and opinionated. In a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette article, Newman argues that her course is interesting because it studies the “small but clearly impressive minority” that is so influential in society.

Krista Kafer, senior policy analyst for education at a conservative think tank in Washington, is critical of the class. She told the Post-Gazette, “It sounds like it’s one of those goofy victimization courses that has no academic value.”

The course’s academic value has its fair share of supporters. But though the subject matter may be interesting, its appearance needs to be fine-tuned.

For starters, it should not be placed in the minority studies department. This classification has traditionally been reserved for groups such as blacks, Hispanics, women and homosexuals. Extremely rich white men don’t really fit in.

The class title doesn’t help matters. It is strikingly similar to the title of Michael Moore’s latest book, “Stupid White Men.” The book is now in its seventh month on the New York Times Bestseller list, and is defined by Moore’s intensely liberal views. It is difficult for people to accept this class as objective when it comes directly on the heels of Moore’s book.

The title of this course was bound to raise eyebrows, and that was its intention. It’s too sensational. If the situation were reversed, the school would never have a course titled “Poor Black Women.”

From politics to technology to scandal, wealthy white males have certainly made their mark on America. Their contributions, their corruptions and their lifestyles are relevant and worthy of study, but Point Park needs re-examine the method of promotion.