E2.0 - PRINCIPLES OF ACADEMIC FREEDOM

All members of the faculty at Rochester Institute of Technology are entitled to full freedom in their teaching, in studies and research, and in the publication of the results of their studies or research. Likewise, they are entitled to freedom in the classroom in discussing their subjects and material relating directly to them. However, they shall not introduce into their teaching controversial material which has no relation to their subjects. Likewise, it is expected that the aforementioned teaching will be aimed toward achieving the educational objectives agreed upon by the faculty, administration and Board of Trustees. Independent study and research is encouraged for members of the faculty subject to the proper performance of their other responsibilities to the Institute.

When faculty speak or write as citizens, they shall be free from institutional censorship or discipline, but they must recognize that their special position in the community imposes particular obligations. As teachers and persons of learning, they must remember that the public may judge their profession and the Institute by their utterances. They should, therefore, at all times be accurate and exercise appropriate restraint. They should respect the views, opinions and sensibilities of others, take into consideration the body of belief held by the constituency, and indicate clearly that they are speaking as private citizens and without reference to their position within the Institute.

Approved September 23, 1963