

Lawrence M. Krauss on the politicization of universities and free speech under threat
Aug 11, 2025
Lawrence M. Krauss, a theoretical physicist and author of 'The War on Science,' dives into the implications of politicization in academia. He discusses the alarming threats to free speech and the need for universities to prioritize excellence over ideology. Krauss critiques the decolonization of science, arguing that politicizing mathematics could oversimplify complex concepts. He emphasizes the essential role of universities in fostering genuine academic freedom and warns against the dangers of prioritizing social justice over rigorous scholarship in science.
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Book Built To Break Silence
- Lawrence Krauss assembled diverse scholars to show academics can speak out.
- He aimed to avoid the book being labeled a partisan attack.
Administrators Avoid Controversy
- Lawrence Krauss laments university administrators often remove scholars to avoid online mobs.
- He blames nonacademic DEI bureaucracies for steering hiring and policy.
Colleagues Who Feared To Speak
- Lawrence Krauss reports colleagues declined to contribute despite sympathy.
- Fear of repercussions keeps many academics silent.