NOW with Bill Moyers. Society & Community. Voices - Academic Freedom | PBS

University of Massachusetts, Amherst

2.15.02

Voices: Academic Freedom

More on This Story:

NOW went to the University of Massachusetts at Amherst to talk to students and professors about academic freedom:


		Are there any areas of opinion that should be off-limits in the classroom?

Here are their voices. Add yours.

		Rosaline, student

			There shouldn't be an area that's off-limits. I can't even think of a reason why something should be off-limits. I'm sure someone could say something controversial, outlandish, racist, sexist, whatever, but I think it all depends on the context, and, again, it depends when someone questions them on it, what their reaction is.

		Jenny, tenured professor:

			I'm not going to say something that I don't think I should, would be over the line, but I'm sure that there are things that are over the line... I don't think any opinions should be off limits. I think that's what one thing that really defines a university in America, is that it should be a safe space for the free exchange and open exchange of ideas. If it's not, then there's no way that there can be any criticism of, of...of the system, or that there can be any way to think of new ideas and really be innovative.

		Michael, student:

			I say that everything should be explored. Everything should be out there in the open. Some stuff like bestiality I don't think should be even touched on. I'm not down with that. They should bring their personal opinions to class. And get crazy with their ideas and subjects. Tell me what's up, ya know. And I'll tell you what's up. Read complete transcript of Voices: University of Massachusetts, Amherst

© Public Affairs Television. All rights reserved.