Academic Freedom and Constitutionalism

Following Jeff, let me highlight the important work Keith Whittington has done in spearheading the Academic Freedom Alliance to protect and preserve academic freedom. I am also honored to be among the founding members.  But let me also highlight the link between education and constitutionalism. The modern American university and the American liberal arts college are, in many ways, outgrowths of American constitutionalism. These “learned institutions” are also a complement to American constitutionalism. Academic freedom is essential to the development of knowledge and truth, which help shape our political culture. This includes university education of a wide-ranging sort that includes things we do not usually associate … Continue reading Academic Freedom and Constitutionalism

Academic Freedom

Academic freedom for university and college faculty has been a concern and a problem for the past century. In recent years this continuing problem has been met with less resistance from professional organizations and societies than in the past. Faculty who are demoted or fired for expressing controversial views face daunting legal as well as social and political challenges. Keith Whittington, a Professor of Politics at Princeton, and author of an important recent book on free speech, Speak Freely: Why Universities Must Defend Free Speech, has formed a new organization to fill the institutional void. I am honored to be … Continue reading Academic Freedom