AI Summary

The text reports controversy at Ghent University (UGent) over the appointment of American philosopher Nathan Cofnas as a postdoctoral researcher.

Main points

Why the appointment is controversial: Cofnas has publicly promoted ideas associated with “race realism” and what critics describe as scientific racism. He has argued that biological differences between population groups may explain differences in traits such as intelligence.

Specific statement: In a 2024 blog post, Cofnas claimed that Black people are, on average, less intelligent than white people. This has caused concern among academics at UGent.

Scientific criticism: The article notes that mainstream modern science generally rejects the idea of biologically distinct human races with inherent differences in intelligence or behavior, describing such theories as pseudoscientific.

Previous controversy: Cofnas previously worked at the University of Cambridge, where Emmanuel College ended its association with him in 2024 after a blog post was considered inconsistent with its diversity and inclusion principles.

His new role: At UGent, Cofnas will work with the Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences on a project examining how liberal societies should respond to growing numbers of non-liberal citizens. He is replacing philosopher Maarten Boudry.

UGent's defense: The university says Cofnas was selected through a proper and qualifications-based process, considering factors such as publications and expertise.

University's position on his views: UGent acknowledges that some of Cofnas's statements are offensive but says they do not breach Belgian law or the university's ethical code.

Broader issue: The controversy highlights a tension between academic freedom and pluralism on one hand, and concerns about discriminatory or scientifically unsupported ideas on the other.

Bottom line

UGent is defending its decision to hire Cofnas on academic and procedural grounds, while critics question whether someone associated with race-science arguments should hold an academic position at an institution committed to inclusion and human rights.