Limits Discussion
Should professors at the college or university level, be able to discuss or investigate any issue, or to express opinions, on any topic without interference or fear of penalty or other reprisal from either the school or the government? Some say yes, as this is how they define academic freedom. However, a more accurate definition of academic freedom must incorporate notions of task limitations (performing the job one was hired to do), responsibility, and legal rights.
"Academic freedom is not a subset of freedom in general, and one cannot reason from a theoretical account of freedom to what one is free to do in a university setting." (Fish, 2008). Academic freedom is freedom for professors engaged in a certain task (Fish, 2008). As such, professors have the freedom to do their jobs, but they can't change the requirements of the job or fail to carry out their responsibilities. These responsibilities "require professors to submit their knowledge and claims to rigorous and public review by peers who are experts in the subject matter under consideration; to ground their arguments in the best available evidence; and to work together to foster the education of students" (Association of America Colleges and Universities, 2006).
Further, contrary to popular belief, academic freedom is not a legal concept. The U.S. Supreme Court does not convey academic freedom full constitutional status; professors are fully responsible for the maintenance of the professional standards and expectations of their disciplines and institutions (Poch, 1994). A professor's contract can grant academic freedom, but when violated, there's a breach of contract issue rather than a freedom issue (Fish, 2008).
Given the limitations of work duties, responsibility, and legal rights, professors can't simply do as they choose. Universities can and should hold them accountable for executing the job in a way that is consistent with a job description and professional responsibilities. If professors don't do this, they don't have a legal case unless there's a work contract issue.
Bibliography
Association of American Colleges and Universities (2006, January 6). Academic freedom and educational responsibility. http://www.aacu.org/About/statements/academic_freedom.cfm
Fish, S. (2008, September 5). Academic freedom is not a divine right. The Chronicle Review. http://chronicle.com/free/v55/i02/02b01001.htm
Poch, R.K. (1994). Academic freedom in America higher education: Rights, responsibilities and limitations. http://www.ericdigests.org/1994/academic.htm
