Session 1
Differences, Contradictions and Coexistence – The tension between Social Safety and Intellectual Freedom: Dealing with Sensitive Topics in Research and Education
Wednesday 1 April,  19:00-21:00 (in English)
Meeting Space XL Social Hub, Sphinxcour 9A, Maastricht

The university should be a place where ideas can flow freely. But how free is academic discourse today?
In this dialogue we look at situations on the floor and in the classroom, and explore tensions between academic freedom and social safety. Who decides what is “too sensitive” and what can be taught, discussed or challenged? Is there room for different opinions, and can we talk about it with respect? How do we deal with topics that can be experienced as hurtful or confrontational? Should we create a safe learning environment while discussing controversial topics, and how can we do so? How do you deal with political pressure or public outrage concerning research? What role do universities play in protecting researchers who publish controversial results?