"Approximately 600 scholars express their intent to maintain the open discussion of thoughts among their peer group"
In a recent development, a group of academics from various countries have voiced their concerns about the ongoing investigation into alleged antisemitic incidents at the University of California, Berkeley. The open letter, published in Liberation, a French daily newspaper, has been signed by notable scholars such as Étienne Balibar, Judith Butler, and Alyosxa Tudor, among others.
The academics have expressed their admiration for those who fight for academic freedom at Berkeley and elsewhere. However, they have also raised questions about the university's approach to the investigation. The open letter does not mention the Trump administration or any specific antisemitic incidents at the university, but it does emphasise the importance of academic freedom, particularly in democratic societies when it is threatened.
The University of California, Berkeley has appointed a person or entity to investigate allegations of antisemitic incidents. The university provided information on 160 faculty members and students as part of the government's investigation into antisemitism during protests. However, the academics believe that the university's action of informing individuals without communicating the content and nature of the allegations contradicts the principle of transparency.
Transparency should work both ways, but the university's action has been criticised for not allowing the individuals reported to contest the information collected by the university. The academics have urged the university to reassure them that they still share the values of academic freedom.
The university's action has been reported by The Guardian, and some university presidents have refused to comply with what they deemed illegitimate requests to preserve the autonomy of their institution. Judith Butler, a notable academic involved in the controversy, has compared her situation to a Kafka character, suggesting a complex and difficult situation.
The University of California, Berkeley has committed to transparency, according to a spokesperson. However, the academics believe that universities also have obligations to their professors and students, who have academic and political rights. The academics have expressed their wish to continue the free exchange of ideas with their colleagues at the University of Berkeley and beyond.
The investigation is a cause for concern for academics from various countries who have been working with colleagues at the University of California, particularly at Berkeley. The academics have not stated whether they support or oppose the investigation into alleged antisemitic incidents at the university. Nonetheless, their open letter serves as a call for transparency and the protection of academic freedom.
