The Future of Higher Education: Navigating Ideological Shifts in Academic Freedom

The Future of Higher Education: Navigating Ideological Shifts in Academic Freedom

Across the Western world, universities — once bastions of open inquiry and intellectual freedom — are increasingly shaped by political ideologies. From deplatforming controversies to internal censorship and self-censorship, the space for dissenting or unpopular views is narrowing.

This ideological climate does not only affect public discourse on campus — it also raises urgent questions about the future of academic freedom and its impact on scientific integrity. When certain perspectives are discouraged or excluded, what happens to open-ended research, critical thinking, and the pursuit of truth?

This panel will explore how these dynamics are transforming the role of universities, and why defending freedom of thought is essential not only for education, but for the future of knowledge itself.

Invited speakers:
️ Gladden Pappin, President of the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs
️ Michael Hume, English journalist and author, launch editor of spiked-online.com

Host:
 Richárd Fodor, Researcher Learning Institute MCC

️ Date and time: April 28, 2025, 18:00
Venue: Scruton Salon (1061 Budapest, Andrássy út 6., 1st floor, doorbell 3)

// The event is free of charge, but due to the limited number of participants, please register in advance! Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Guests are kindly requested to arrive at least 10-15 minutes before the start of the programme!
Pictures and sound recordings may be made at the event and may be used for advertising and documentation purposes!
For any questions or if you are unable to attend the event, please contact [email protected]! //