Big Take Princeton’s President Responds to Attacks on Higher Education
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Apr 1, 2025 
Christopher Eisgruber, President of Princeton University and advocate for academic freedom, discusses the Trump administration's scrutiny of higher education. He addresses the impact of recent funding freezes linked to issues of free speech and anti-Semitism on campuses. Eisgruber emphasizes the importance of open debates and the university's commitment to maintaining academic integrity. He also explores the challenges posed by government influence on research funding and the unique contributions of American universities to innovation in a politically charged environment.
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Key Principles of University Success
- American universities are the best globally due to their commitment to academic freedom and free speech.
- A constructive partnership between universities and the government has been crucial for their success.
The Importance of Free Speech
- Free speech is essential for universities as it fosters vigorous discussion and the pursuit of truth.
- Universities must defend free speech even for unpopular or seemingly strange ideas.
Combating Anti-Semitism
- Anti-semitism is a rising concern on campuses, and universities must actively combat it and other forms of hate.
- Princeton uses broad anti-discrimination principles rather than specific definitions for particular types of discrimination.