Lee Bollinger

Lee Bollinger, President Emeritus of Columbia University and a noted First Amendment expert, dives into the pressures facing higher education today. He discusses the Trump administration's tactics of using federal funding threats to influence universities. Bollinger highlights the importance of academic freedom and the legal arguments that institutions can leverage. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating free speech, anti-Semitism, and affirmative action within the current political landscape, underscoring the critical need for collaboration among universities to protect these principles.

From April 20, 2021: Jack Goldsmith sat down with Lee Bollinger, the president of Columbia University, and Geoffrey Stone, the Edward H. Levy Distinguished Service Professor at the University of Chicago Law School, to discuss their new book, "National Security, Leaks and Freedom of the Press: The Pentagon Papers Fifty Years On." They discussed the holding and legacy of the Pentagon Papers case, as well as some of the many challenges of applying the Pentagon Papers regime in the modern digital era that is characterized by massive leaks and a very different press landscape than the one that prevailed in 1971.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/lawfare. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lee Bollinger, President of Columbia University, and Geoffrey Stone, Professor at the University of Chicago Law School, dive into the legacy of the Pentagon Papers and its relevance today. They explore the tension between national security and press freedom, examining how leaks impact media practices. The conversation touches on the evolution of First Amendment rights and the need for modern reforms in handling classified information. They also discuss the balance of secrecy and transparency, emphasizing the importance of protecting both journalists and whistleblowers in today's digital age.

Lee Bollinger, President Emeritus of Columbia University, dives deep into the challenges facing higher education today. He discusses how the Trump administration's funding strategies threaten academic freedom, pointing out the critical reliance universities have on federal support. Bollinger also addresses the delicate balance of free speech and accountability within campuses, especially regarding anti-Semitism. He shares insights on navigating the heated debates over affirmative action and strategies for universities to rally support amid political pressures.

In this engaging conversation, Lee Bollinger, the President of Columbia University and a distinguished legal scholar, explores the evolving landscape of higher education. He delves into the contentious issues of free speech on campuses and the true value of a college degree. They discuss the responsibilities of elite universities toward those without degrees and the importance of ideological diversity. Additionally, Bollinger reflects on the challenges posed by political pressures during his tenure as U.S. Attorney, alongside a light-hearted nod to pop culture.