Criticism of faculty in SOP

[fiscalli]

In my SOP, if I criticize the opinions of some current economists who hold faculty positions, but not in the schools I'm applying, will that cause a problem for admission (in case the faculty have the same views as those I've criticized)?

[dat_nerd]

I wouldn't. You don't want to give the adcomms any reason to decline you, and making a negative statement could be a reason. Perhaps you could rephrase it as improving on their work or how their work inspired you to consider a different research direction?

[TakeruK]

I really think you should never make a negative statement when trying to sell yourself (e.g. in a SOP or an interview). Not even if you are making a negative comment about a rival school to praise the school you're applying to. And especially never make a negative statement about any of your past schools/employers/etc.!!

[thenerdypengwin]

Don't do it! ...if you want to do it, qualify their opinions. Do not attempt to invalidate others views. Then offer an alternative view. It's good to show that you have different thinking, but make sure not to sound closed minded. You're young in this field, don't attempt to assert that you know more than those with more expertise.

[queenleblanc]

I agree with the other responses here -- the SOP should be positive, mostly about YOU, what your career aspirations / goals are in the grad program, and if asked, why you fit that school or why you want to go to that school (some ask this, some have specific questions). Definitely check to see if there are any specific topics or questions to cover. Don't focus on negatives about anywhere else you have considered or are applying (the admissions committee could care less about other schools), and don't bad-mouth any previous employers or educational programs in your SOP -- it may give the impression that one day, you'll do that about their school or your experience at that grad program. Just my two cents. Good luck with your SOP!

[moody]

How, exactly, are you criticizing them? If you are taking issue with some of their theoretical proposals *based on the findings of your own research*, that's fine, but be careful to word it appropriately - e.g., "My research suggests calls proposal X (citation) into questions because..." Be careful not to criticize without a strong basis, though... it can come off as arrogant if you don't have any data to back it up.

[spunkrag]

One way to frame it might be an an "alternative approach" deal. Talk about your interests in examining alternative theories of such and such (hegemonic) idea. I wouldn't recommend directly attacking (or criticizing) other scholars for the same reasons other posters have said. If you do go that route, frame it as being critical of an idea, not a person.