Campus free speech: A cultural approach

US colleges and universities have well-documented cultures of self-censorship and oppression of disfavored views. In contrast, free expression is consistent with campus values of toleration, diversity, and inclusion.

External forces such as lawsuits and legislation can help protect free expression, but lasting change must come from a shift in campus culture.

Effective cultural reform will include reformation of admissions practices, residence life, and curriculum; administrative training for crisis management on matters of free expression; and a culture of modeling good behavior, rather than punishing minority viewpoints.