Purpose

Lindenwood University is committed to protecting the ability of faculty to express ideas and concepts that are relevant to their subjects in research, in publication, and within the classroom.

Scope

This policy applies to all faculty, staff, and individuals employed by or seeking employment with the University.

Policy

Lindenwood University is committed to the idea that universities are centers of intellectual growth, exploration, creativity, and expression. It is incumbent upon the university, therefore, to create an atmosphere that is conducive to open, critical thinking. Central to that duty is the freedom to formulate and express ideas that advance the process of intellectual inquiry and education. Therefore, freedom of thought and word within the confines of higher education is central to the effective education of Lindenwood students.

Academic freedom carries profound responsibilities. The university itself must take all precautions to protect the ability of faculty to express ideas and concepts that are germane to their respective subjects in research and publication as well as the classroom; the ability to do so without interference must remain unfettered. Some subjects of intellectual inquiry cause discomfort to some or all students and faculty members, yet failure to explore those topics would be to deny our responsibility as educators. Rather, the open exchange of ideas between faculty and students must be conducted in an atmosphere of mutual civility, respect, and attention toward the greater good of the university and its members.

Faculty members should neither be censored for expression of their views nor engage in self-censorship out of fear of recrimination; similarly, students should know that they have the right to express their views as well but will be held to the same standard of defense of those views. Academic freedom in no way implies a tolerance of disrespect, of bigotry, or of discrimination regarding age, race, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or gender, nor should the academic freedom of one person interfere with that of another.

Academic freedom also includes the right to freedom in research and publication. Faculty members are free to select topics, obtain data, and report findings in a manner that is scientifically and academically sound in their field without censorship.