These are the commitments that inform all of the University of Nottingham’s specific policies that have implications for the freedom of speech. Participants in these debates should not be intimidated or censored, nor should they intimidate or censor others. The University’s policies are designed to ensure that debates about controversial ideas are inclusive, peaceful and civil. It must equally be recognised that a commitment to promote freedom of speech and academic freedom does not require tolerance of abuse, threats, incitement to violence, hatred, discrimination, or other unlawful acts and in exercising these rights, we must each be mindful of the potential to cause harm and of our own accountability. Staff and students making decisions about invitations should always carefully assess whether the interests of the University community would be better served by inviting this person in addition to someone who can challenge them in public debate, rather than not having them speak at all.
It is not obliged to provide a platform to individuals who have no recognised expertise in a field of academic inquiry nor does it have to provide speaking opportunities to those who wish to promote views that are manifestly at odds with empirically verifiable objective facts. As a scholarly institution it confers authority and legitimacy on the views which attach to it and provides an audience for the speakers it hosts.
Free speek free#
The University is a staunch defender of free speech, but it is not a public square. Similarly, views expressed by staff and students that are contrary to the values of the University must never be presented as if they were endorsed by the University. Whenever possible, controversial ideas should be subject to questioning and challenged by rational argument supported by relevant evidence. A commitment to academic freedom does not entail that every claim or viewpoint is equally worthwhile some views will not stand up to intellectual scrutiny. Academic staff at Nottingham have freedom within the law to question and test received wisdom and to put forward new ideas and controversial or unpopular opinions, without placing themselves in jeopardy of losing their jobs or privileges.
The University is also committed to protecting and promoting academic freedom. In seeking to protect the freedom of speech of its staff and students, the University will take appropriate measures, in accordance with the terms of this statement, to assist staff and students whose freedom of speech is threatened by third parties. At the same time we will continue to engage with and provide an environment and infrastructure to support the wellbeing of both speakers and those who may object to a speaker or are for whatever reason concerned or offended by them.
By helping students develop the skills to engage critically with new ideas, the University seeks to prepare them for the challenges they will face once they graduate. The University will actively promote and facilitate freedom of speech and allow for robust and civil debate . It applies to all who wish to seek, receive or impart information and ideas of all kinds, and includes the right to protest peacefully. The freedom of expression applies not only to information or ideas that are favourably received, but also to those that offend, shock or disturb. Promoting free speech and supporting wellbeing
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