Self-Censorship in a Polarized Nation

3:35 - 4:25 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025
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According to a 2020 study by St. Louis Washington University, approximately 40% of Americans have chosen to keep their opinions to themselves rather than share their thoughts. A wide-ranging survey of faculty conducted from December 2023 to February 2024 noted that faculty are increasingly self-censoring due to concerns about causing controversy (Quinn, 2025).  The impact of silence can be profound.  Constant self-censorship can lead to stress, anxiety and stagnate academic and social progress.  What factors are contributing to self-censorship among individuals, especially in academic and public settings? How can technology and social media be leveraged to help create more resilient individuals and communities?

Panel Host: Daezia Smith     Q&A Moderator: Dr. Sara H. Holifield

Presenters