Self-Censorship in a Polarized Nation

3:35 - 4:25 p.m., Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Virtual Panel Only
Zoom Webinar URL link for attendees will be listed here two-weeks prior to date.

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?

Presenters

Associate Professor of Communication Justin Eckstein

Justin Eckstein

Associate Professor of Communication
Pacific Lutheran University

Faculty Reporter Ryan Quinn

Ryan Quinn

Faculty Reporter
Inside Higher Ed