F.R. Scott Lecture with Dr. Bernard Shapiro: Freedom of Speech in the Ivory Tower
The Friends of the McGill Library welcome Principal Emeritus, Bernard Shapiro for a timely lecture on freedom of expression in academic institutions.
The event will be live-streamed: https://youtu.be/I3_dXZ0hzmc
Description
Universities are often the last organized places to teach millions of adults to doubt authority, to look things up, to weigh ideas and evidence, to argue, to do the hard work of changing their own minds. The topic of freedom of speech on university campuses is coming up with great frequency. Some studies suggest that students and faculty are less willing to engage with anyone with whom they do not agree. Are we truly witnessing shifting attitudes about what is acceptable when it comes to individual expression, protests, and even jokes? Does anyone have the right not to be offended?
About the speaker
Born and raised in Montreal, Dr. Shapiro graduated from McGill's Faculty of Arts at the top of his class. After earning a doctoral degree from Harvard University, he had a distinguished career as an academic, administrator and senior public servant in the United States and Canada. He returned to Montreal to lead McGill from 1994 to 2002 and is currently Principal and Vice-Chancellor Emeritus of the University and Professor Emeritus in the Faculty of Education.
Important note about the venue
Peel Street, from Sherbrooke Street to Avenue des Pins, is undergoing major renovations and is partially closed. Please give yourself additional time for delays in parking and reaching the venue. Get updates on the construction here.
