academic freedom

noun

1. freedom of a teacher to discuss or investigate any controversial social, economic, or political problems without interference or penalty from officials, organized groups, etc.
2. freedom of a student to explore any field or hold any belief without interference from the teacher.

academic freedom

1. The right of teachers and students to express their ideas in the classroom or in writing, free from political, religious, or institutional restrictions, even if these ideas are unpopular.

Word History and Origins

Origin of academic freedom¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

“These institutions need to reflect on the appropriate balance of academic freedom with free speech and redefine diversity to include differing and legitimate viewpoints.”

From Los Angeles Times

Top college officials wax eloquent about the sanctity of higher learning and academic freedom while they suppress protests against policies that have destroyed scores of universities in Palestine.

From Salon

He told chancellors that rights to free speech and academic freedom must not “place community members in reasonable fear for their personal safety or infringe on their civil rights.”

From Los Angeles Times

“This reflects that we value academic freedom, and it provides a very inclusive environment for the individual departments to put out statements and reflecting minority opinions within those departments,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

A San José State professor who was serving as a liaison for students demonstrating against the Israel-Hamas war was suspended, claims ‘academic freedom suppression.’

From Los Angeles Times