In yet another example of the existential threat to freedom of speech, Merton College Oxford proposes draconian conditions on an upcoming debate on gender which will prevent the GC position being articulated. As a poster on another thread commented, the anniversary of George Orwell's death shines a spotlight on the dystopian environment where rigorous debate, critical thinking and freedom of speech are struggling to withstand an onslaught from those that believe in none of the above.
^Academics have accused Merton College of adopting a “draconian” stance towards free speech by “suppressing gender-critical thought”.
Prof Selina Todd, a historian at Oxford University, said she was “stunned” by the event’s rules, adding that it sets a “dangerous precedent”.
“My understanding is that universities and colleges are supposed to be upholding free speech” she said. “Merton College seemed to me a place where you could debate calmly and an informed matter, and the way this has now been couched as 'you're not allowed to debate' has left me staggered.”She said it is “very worrying” that a reputable university college such as Merton has made such an “overt statement that debate is not welcomed”^