Colleges and universities are extraordinary places, intended for a shared pursuit of truth and knowledge. That pursuit requires open inquiry and debate–especially on controversial topics. Tough questions belong here. So do unpopular opinions, inconvenient theories, and unsettling data. On campus, scholars and students in deep disagreement don’t just co-exist, they engage in an extraordinary way that enriches learning and understanding for everyone.

But there’s one key condition. If the university itself starts taking positions on the controversial questions that are studied and debated on campus, it undermines the whole community. Like a referee who puts on a jersey to play, a university leader who picks a side can ruin the game for everyone.

About This Brief

This resource is prepared by Heterodox Academy (HxA), a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that promotes open inquiry, viewpoint diversity, and constructive disagreement in higher education. Not every HxA member endorses neutrality in college or university statements, and some may prefer different formulations than the one presented here. Still, we hope this resource proves useful to institutions considering adopting a policy of statement neutrality.  

Feedback on this version is welcome at questions@heterodoxacademy.org.