[csaa-forum] query: academic freedom?

[Vincent O'Donnell]

Hi Felicity,

It is not just Uni. of Melbourne that is valuing government and corporate relations above academic freedom.  

UQ recently sought to censure one its academic associates who expressed doubt about the anti-cervical cancer drug developed by UQ and CSL. A written apology was demanded (they couldn't demote him because he was not a paid member of staff) for views expressed during a radio interview.  The university has withdrawn its demands with ill grace after some protests over its actions.

Paul Mees is a good academic with an accurate antenna for gobblygook.  The roads lobby here is as powerful as it was in Los Angles when, in the 1920s through dummy companies, the public transport system was bought up, run down and closed.  If those who have complained about Paul's remarks had sound grounds for complaint, then an action in defamination was open to them.  Instead that chose a more subversive route for retribution, possibl their only course as truth is now a complete defense in defamation, Australia-wide.  

We hear a lot about the dangers of Public-Private Partnerships from commentators like Ken Davidson.  As universities are increasingly taking their business models from the private sector, then the management of universities are likely to become increasingly risk adverse, and likely to take refuge in confidentiality clauses.  

Al such arrangements are contrary to academic freedom and the progress of knowledge, and must be resisted bothe from motives of academic self interest and the public good.

Bye,

Dr Vincent O'Donnell