Colleges have long been considered bastions of freedom of expression, yet as today’s students challenge the norms of free speech and new rules are set in place regarding sexual harassment, and diversity and inclusion, that view is beginning to change. Social media, and the potential for a firestorm, further complicates the matter. What are institutions doing to combat the growing sentiment that college is an unwelcoming place for differing views?
We gathered a panel of experts to share their stories with The Review’s Len Gutkin — and you can read the highlights from their discussion in our latest Key Takeaways, Students and Freedom of Expression on Campus.
- Campuses look to “turn down the temperature”. Encouraging active listening and healthy debate helps students better understand one another and creates a safe space in the classroom.
- Self censorship is a double-edged sword. While watching one's words carefully is common etiquette that can help protect the feelings of others, there is a potential to overdo it.
- Reframing the debate over free speech. Campuses reflect the reality of the outside world, rather than sentiments within individualized bubbles.