A former professor emeritus claims he was stripped of his title after publishing a critique of critical race theory (CRT). Dr. David Harris said the move by Plymouth Marjon University followed the appearance of self-published research in 2024 which examined CRT’s central arguments and their applicability to Britain.
Harris argues that this reflects a growing intolerance for provocative academic work which his former vice-chancellor, Professor Claire Taylor, reportedly stated was “poor quality and often controversial,” and undertaken in Marjon’s name (nationally ranked 115th in UK university rankings).
Dr. Harris believes these remarks directly relate to his CRT critique, which questioned the tendency of CRT to see systemic prejudice in all social structures.
Harris said the rise of cancel culture makes it “very difficult” for academics to research controversial subjects (while noting that retired or emeritus scholars may face fewer obstacles in publishing and investigation, although not necessarily at Marjon in south-west England).
Following a disruption of his university email and library access in July 2024, Dr. Harris formally complained, prompting a human resources investigation. The consultancy BRHR found no revocation of his emeritus status and described his “perception of unfair treatment“ as “understandable.” Nevertheless, Prof. Taylor cited the “tone and content” of his correspondence as inconsistent with university “values and standards” and confirmed withdrawal of his emeritus title.
The Campaign for Academic Freedom (CAF) has demanded reinstatement, criticizing the lack of due process, investigation, or panel review. Freddie Attenborough of the CAF emphasised that
the decision was inconsistent with the terms of Dr Harris’s 2011 appointment and with the University’s own prior confirmations of his status. The vice-chancellor should now remedy this by formally reinstating his emeritus title.
The CRT controversy is also spreading across UK schools. Earlier reports revealed that anti-white critical race theory curriculum is being taught to young students at Church of England schools, whose educators are teaching white children that they “benefit from the systematic oppression of People of Colour through racist policies and practice.”
