Does the principle of academic freedom protect Australian academics who engage in pointed public criticism of their academic colleagues, and university governance? A case in the High Court this week provides a rare opportunity to consider academic … [Read more...] about The Idea of Academic Freedom, Explained by Stone and Forrest*
Freedom of Speech
Roaring in Defiance, with Helen Reddy, Craig Kelly and Zoe Buhler
Originally from Melbourne, musician Helen Reddy wrote such an inspiring song about women ‘in numbers too big to ignore’ back in 1971. That was when my mother was telling me ‘It’s a man’s world', while at the same time providing me with every … [Read more...] about Roaring in Defiance, with Helen Reddy, Craig Kelly and Zoe Buhler
Speaking Out, for Zoe Lee
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak … [Read more...] about Speaking Out, for Zoe Lee
Peter Ridd versus Prestige, and Clown Fish Beyond that Mudflat
To be truly curious we must confess our ignorance. The person who knows everything would have no reason to question, no need to experiment. If they went in search of evidence, it could only be to confirm what they already knew to be true. Knowledge … [Read more...] about Peter Ridd versus Prestige, and Clown Fish Beyond that Mudflat
Free Julian Assange
I unequivocally support freedom of speech, and especially freedom of the press. We need more outsiders like Julian Assange who take on the elites and the industrial military complex ... and fearlessly publish without redaction. Much in the … [Read more...] about Free Julian Assange
Can Universities Lawfully Bully Academics into Silence?
Dr Peter Ridd has taken James Cook University to court protesting his sacking for what he says is, primarily, speaking-out about the lack of quality assurance in Great Barrier Reef science. Dr Ridd spoke out initially about there being no … [Read more...] about Can Universities Lawfully Bully Academics into Silence?
Jennifer Marohasy BSc PhD has worked in industry and government. She is currently researching a novel technique for long-range weather forecasting funded by the B. Macfie Family Foundation.