Free speech on US university campuses: differentiating perspectives using Q methodology

ABSTRACT

Recently, campus free speech has become a focus of contentious debate and increased scrutiny. This study confirms that although university stakeholders may generally embrace the concept of free speech on campus, they also disagree about its limits and purpose within higher education, even if they are from the same institution. This investigation used Q methodology to scientifically study the subjectivity (viewpoints) among a diverse set of university stakeholders within the United States. Participants provided a snapshot of their views by sorting 55 statements related to speech on campus. The analyses revealed consensus, distinguishing statements, and rich descriptions of five unique speech on campus viewpoints: Idealistic, Social Justice, Speech Crisis, Sage on the Stage, and Fox News. These viewpoints provided insights about how university stakeholders perceive speech on campus. Consensus includes acceptance that ideas taught and expressed at institutions of higher education should rest with the faculty. Implications are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Academic freedom
• qualitative
• attitude
• typology
• speech

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.