American campuses retreat from debate: Students reject controversial Ideas as free speech falters
A new survey of nearly 70,000 US college students reveals a growing reluctance to engage with controversial ideas, regardless of political affiliation. Increasingly tolerant of disruptive or even violent tactics to silence speakers, students are retreating from debate, eroding critical thinking and resilience. The findings highlight a campus culture balancing ideological safety against the principles of free expression.
A new survey of nearly 70,000 US college students reveals a growing reluctance to engage with controversial ideas, regardless of political affiliation. Increasingly tolerant of disruptive or even violent tactics to silence speakers, students are retreating from debate, eroding critical thinking and resilience. The findings highlight a campus culture balancing ideological safety against the principles of free expression.
