Students Are Not the Biggest Problem When It Comes to Speech

Overview:

This article by Samuel J. Abrams at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) discusses the issue of free speech on college campuses, arguing that students are not the primary problem when it comes to restrictions on speech.

• Abrams emphasizes that the real issue lies with college administrators and diversity, equity, and inclusion offices, which contribute to a culture of censorship and fear.
• The article highlights that most students value free speech and are open to diverse viewpoints.​

Key Quotes:

1. "It is the college administrators and diversity, equity, and inclusion offices that hinder the classical liberal education experience."
2. "About 61 percent of students often feel intimidated to share their ideas, opinions, or beliefs in class because they are different than those of their professors."​

What They Discuss:

• The decline of viewpoint diversity and open debate in colleges, leading to ideological monoculture.
• The misconception that student mobs are the main cause of speech limitations, while the role of college administrators is more significant.
• Data from the Buckley Institute showing that a majority of students value free speech but feel pressured to self-censor.
• The support among students for the First Amendment and open debate, even if some ideas may be uncomfortable.
• The need to educate students on the value of free speech and diverse opinions for a better education and future leadership.

What They Recommend:

• Supporting students' desire to learn and question, rather than focusing on a minority that seeks to limit liberal education.
• Promoting the fact that most students understand the importance of listening to different opinions for a liberal education.
• Encouraging students to be key players in pushing back against the impulse to silence debate.
• Backing students in their learning and not blaming them for the problems of expression on campus.​

Key Takeaways:

• The article challenges the narrative that students are the main impediment to free speech on campuses.
• It highlights the need to address the role of college administrators in creating a restrictive environment.
• The article underscores the importance of fostering an educational culture that values open debate and diverse viewpoints.

This is a brief overview of Samuel J. Abrams' article from the American Enterprise Institute. For complete insights, we recommend reading the full article.