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So to Speak: The Free Speech Podcast
Ep. 234: The Chicago Canon
Jan 23, 2025
Tony Banout, the inaugural executive director of the Forum on Free Inquiry at the University of Chicago, and Tom Ginsburg, a distinguished international law professor, discuss the university’s dedication to free speech. They explore the origins and importance of free expression within academia, referencing key historical documents that guide these principles. The conversation also highlights the challenges of maintaining institutional neutrality amid modern pressures. Ultimately, they underscore the vital role of discomfort in education for fostering genuine inquiry and diverse viewpoints.
01:07:31
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Quick takeaways
- The University of Chicago's commitment to institutional neutrality allows free expression without institutional bias, promoting rigorous academic inquiry.
- Historical reports like the 1967 Kalven Report and the 2015 Committee Report solidify the university's foundational principles on free speech and expression.
Deep dives
The Role of Universities in Free Speech
Universities are often seen as neutral spaces where the best minds engage in scholarly pursuits without institutional bias. The podcast emphasizes that the University of Chicago operates on the principle of institutional neutrality, allowing individual faculty and students to express their views freely, in contrast to other institutions that may issue collective statements on social or political issues. This approach originated from the university's founding philosophy, which prioritizes the discovery, improvement, and dissemination of knowledge by fostering an environment where discussions can occur without institutional intervention. Despite financial pressures and societal expectations, the university advocates for a thin institutional presence, focusing instead on enhancing academic inquiry.
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