National Debate: Free Speech on College Campuses

Are some ideas and beliefs too extreme to be offered a hearing on campus? And who decides what is too extreme or too hateful? Has free speech been ‘disinvited’ on campus? Speakers have been shouted down and some students, conservatives, but liberals as well, feel they have to censor their comments and their work. What effects does this have on students’ education?

Some students and faculty think that limiting expression of extreme views creates a more civil environment and protects more vulnerable groups and students. Others believe that students best learn by having to encounter, debate and challenge all and any ideas, especially ones with which they disagree.