Unchallengeable Orthodoxy in Academia and Science

March 19 & 20, 2009Sandra Day O'Connor College of LawArizona State University 

This conference, held at the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law, AriZona State University, will critically examine the precept that American and British universities and the scientific communities in these countries are, and should be places, in which people are free to "think the unthinkable, discuss the unmentionable, and challenge the unchallengeable." (Quoting 1975 Statement of Yale Committee on
Freedom of Expression).

Specifically, the conference will investigate if there are in fact "unchallengeable orthodoxies" in these communities, and to the extent there are, whether there should be. Case studies of restrictions on
ideas and research on racial differences, treatment of dissenters about global warming and the exclusion or marginalization of those who believe in creationism or intelligent design.

For further information please see the conference website: Unchallengeable Orthodoxy in Academia and Science