Academic Freedom Is Central to Scientific Progress

Recent attention has focused on the U.S. state of Florida as its governor has advanced policies that politicize science and infringe on academic freedom—a foundational pillar of science. Unfortunately, these attacks are not limited to Florida. Similar political attacks are occurring in countries and communities around the world.  

As a global scientific organization, the Association for Psychological Science (APS) is deeply concerned about these developments. We remain committed to the open exchange of scientific information and to supporting academic and educational environments free from political interference.  

At this challenging period in world history, we once again share our commitment to academic freedom with our members, particularly those residing and working in jurisdictions where politics and restrictive and inappropriate government regulation of science, scholarship, and education are occurring. Academic freedom enables academic psychological scientists—and those from other disciplines—to produce and disseminate knowledge through research, teaching, practice, and service without undue constraint. Academic freedom is essential to advance the common good.  

We urge governments around the world to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being of their citizens by promoting academic freedom.