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There was a time when universities were celebrated for their commitment to free thought and critical dialogue. However, the landscape has changed.
Instances of disinviting speakers, shouting them down, or coercing them to cancel have become increasingly common. Bias reporting systems, originally intended for protection, are now casting a wide net, ensnaring even harmless conversations. At Virginia Tech, a student reported overhearing male students discussing a snowball fight and praising the athleticism of their female peers. Should this be cause for concern?
Skeptics may dismiss concerns about free speech as exaggeration, but our nationwide survey of 2,250 college students from 131 universities paints a different picture. The statistics are troubling – 74 percent of students believe that professors should be reported to the university for making offensive statements, and 58 percent feel the same about other students.
A concerning 72 percent of students who feel uncomfortable speaking out express concern that their opinions may be deemed unacceptable. (iStock)
Does this mean that our campuses are filled with hate speech and harassment? Not exactly. The survey asked students why they believed professors should be reported and presented 10 statements relating to affirmative action, police shootings, and vaccines. An astonishing 88 percent of students in favor of reporting mentioned these statements.
FREE SPEECH CONTROVERSIES ERUPT ON TODAY’S COLLEGE CAMPUSES
What kind of statements are we dealing with? For instance, 40 percent of all students think a professor should be reported for saying, “If you examine the data, there is no evidence of anti-Black bias in police shootings.” And it’s important not to assume that this only targets one political leaning. While right-leaning views are often the focus, left-leaning perspectives are not exempt. For example, 14 percent of all students would report a professor for saying, “Not getting vaccinated for COVID is irresponsible and inconsiderate to others.”
Despite the negative trends, the survey does offer some comfort to advocates of free expression. It reveals that most students feel comfortable sharing their opinions. However, a closer look reveals that this comfort is deceiving. Nearly half of these students confess that their comfort stems from believing that their views align with the majority.
For those who dissent, the situation appears grim. A troubling 72 percent of students who feel uncomfortable speaking out express concern that their opinions may be deemed unacceptable.
THESE STATES ARE FINDING CREATIVE WAYS TO SUPPORT FREE SPEECH ON CAMPUS
The purpose of universities extends beyond the transmission of knowledge; they are intended to be crucibles for critical thinking. To ensure that the leaders of tomorrow possess strong problem-solving skills, we must cultivate an environment where diverse ideas can be freely expressed and debated.
As we navigate the increasingly complex landscape of free speech on campuses, it’s time to reconsider our approach. One solution could be for universities to offer free speech training based on successful programs such as the one at Stanford Law School. Another example of innovative thinking is the establishment of the new School of Civic Life and Leadership at the University of North Carolina’s Chapel Hill campus.
By fostering an open, diverse, and civil environment, we can ensure that students understand their right to free speech and feel empowered and comfortable expressing their opinions without fear of reprisal. This creates a space for the free and open exchange of ideas, offering unique perspectives and insights that enrich our communities and education system.
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This issue’s implications extend beyond campuses as well. The current generation of college students will become tomorrow’s professionals, leaders, and citizens, and they must possess the skills to engage in civil discourse.
Providing individuals with education on how to respectfully share their perspectives can foster a culture of acceptance and understanding that extends to all aspects of our lives.
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