N. Aberlin

M. Scully

Statement and Supporting Evidence

Due to the first amendment in correlation with the Columbia University Faculty Handbook, Nicholas De Genova, an anthropology professor at Columbia University, had the right, without consequences, to state his opinion about the current war in Iraq during a recent “teach-in” set up by Columbia University. De Genova was quoted by CNN that he would like to see Americans not only defeated by the Iraqi’s, but also killed. This is a remark that has angered many Americans and students around the country; however, because De Genova was speaking outside of the classroom and not for the university, he is entitled to his opinion (CNN.com). The first amendment, directly from the United States Bill of Rights, states that, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances (NARA).” Columbia University, being a private institution, is not required to oblige by the first amendment and sets up their own guidelines that instructors must follow. For Columbia, however, the first amendment is followed within their handbook. A segment from the handbook states:

 

“Academic freedom implies that all officers of instruction are entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing their subjects; that they are entitled to freedom in research and in the publication of its results; and that they may not be penalized by the University for expressions of opinion or associations in their private or civic capacity; but they should bear in mind the special obligations arising from their position in the academic community (Columbia University).”

 

In addition to this the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), who produce guidelines for professors to use when conducting themselves in and out of classroom state that inside the classroom professors should be careful to only comment on their particular subject and that as a citizen they should be “free from institutional censorship or discipline.” However, the AAUP adds that professors should keep in mind that they are judged by what they say in public (AAUP).

               Although Columbia University, as stated to CNN, disagrees with De Genova's comments, they are within the guidelines of not only the university, but also the AAUP and Bill of Rights (CNN.com). Rightfully, De Genova should not be punished for having an opinion outside of the classroom.          

 

Counter Evidence

               The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) stated in a recent business meeting that times of war and conflict produce “anxiety and apathy in students-reactions which teachers have a responsibility to combat.” (NCTE.org) This statement holds true for professors of all subjects, not just those of English. De Genova had an ethical responsibility to his students and the way that they were being affected by the war. He did not consider the effect his speech would have on the emotions of his students.

               “Teachers are entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing their subject, but they should be careful not to introduce in to their teaching controversial matter…” (AAUP.org) advises the AAUP since the 1940’s. Ethically, De Genova did not follow this guideline, but he did have the right to due so because it is only a suggestion and not a rule.

 

American Association of University Professors. “1940 Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure; with 1970 Interpretive Comments.” 1970. 10 April 2003 http://www.aaup.org/statements/Redbook/1940stat.htm.

 

CNN.com. “Columbia Professor’s anti-U.S. Military Call” 28 March 2003. 10 April 2003 http://www.cnn.com/2003/US/Northeast/03/28/sprj.irq.professor.somalia.ap/ .

 

Columbia University. “Columbia University Faculty Handbook.” 2000. 10 April 2003 http://www.columbia.edu/cu/vpaa/fhb/main.html .

 

National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). “The Bill of Rights.” 25 September 1789. 10 April 2003 http://www.archives.gov/exhibit_hall/charters_of_freedom/bill_of_rights/bill_of_rights.html

 

National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). “On Teaching in a Time of War.” 2001. 10 April 2003 http://www.ncte.org/resolutions/crisis2001.shtml