Racist Free Speech: How Far Is Too Far?

“Barnard Professor Triggers Free Speech Controversy After Writing About “Detonating” and Gassing White People” by Jonathan Turley

A book by a Barnard College English instructor named Ben Philippe has caused a firestorm due to his depiction of a fantasy of gassing white people.  The book passage has led some to demand review from the college for possible discipline or termination. As will come as no surprise to many on this blog, I believe such writing should be protected as a matter of free speech and academic freedom.  The incident does however raise another case highlighting the uncertain or conflicting treatment given such writings by universities.

-Jonathan Turley

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