Free Expression

President Alivisatos continues the University’s tradition of upholding and promoting free expression and open discourse.

Open Discourse and Rigorous Inquiry

A foundation for excellence in education and research

A Fundamental Principle

The University of Chicago has demonstrated its commitment to the principles of free expression for more than 125 years
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Federal Action Regarding Free Expression on Campuses
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Open Discourse and Rigorous Inquiry

A foundation for excellence in education and research

A Fundamental Principle

The University of Chicago has demonstrated its commitment to the principles of free expression for more than 125 years
View Timeline

Through the Broyles Bills and McCarthyism, Vietnam protests and the Cold War, University leaders, faculty, students, and staff have defended and upheld the principles of free expression and academic freedom.
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In 2014, President Robert J. Zimmer and Provost Eric Isaacs appointed a committee of University faculty to articulate “the University’s overarching commitment to free, robust, and uninhibited debate.” The resulting “Chicago Principles” have since been adopted by universities and colleges across the country.
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At a time of political polarization, President Paul Alivisatos outlines priorities for the “tough work” of upholding UChicago’s free expression principles.
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Free Expression: A University of Chicago Core Value

An education that fosters free expression empowers students to engage with challenging ideas – in college and throughout their lives. This video provides an overview of the Chicago Principles and the University of Chicago’s commitment to free expression in a setting of diverse perspectives.

Watch the video.

“There is not an institution of learning in the country in which freedom of teaching is more absolutely untrammeled than in the University of Chicago.”

 

William Rainey Harper
First President of the University of Chicago