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78336-01 - Workshop: The Freedom of Science: A Societal Challenge (1 CP)
| Semester | spring semester 2026 |
| Course frequency | Once only |
| Lecturers | Alexandra Hofmänner (alexandra.hofmaenner@unibas.ch, Assessor) |
| Content | The freedom of science is more than a principle of higher education policy; it is rooted in the universal principles of human rights and the national traditions of civil rights. It is grounded in the conviction that free and open scientific inquiry serves the public good and is essential for societal progress. Yet the institutions established to safeguard these rights face mounting challenges: their authority is increasingly questioned, their capacities restricted, and their legitimacy undermined worldwide. Institutions such as the European University Association and the European Parliament warn that these fundamental rights are increasingly under threat and show signs of erosion across the globe. Recent developments suggest that attacks on scientific independence are often closely tied to wider political and social tensions, including populist and authoritarian tendencies that target not only science but also the media, the judiciary, and civil society. The freedom of science, therefore, is not merely an academic concern but a cornerstone of liberal democracy. Despite its universal claim and diverse codifications in national law, the question of what the freedom of science truly protects and encompasses remains contested. Even in liberal democracies, this freedom is defined and practiced in differing legal, cultural, and social contexts. The distinction between the freedom of science and academic freedom is far from clear, and the boundaries between academic freedom and freedom of expression are interpreted differently around the world – and are being questioned more than ever. This workshop examines current developments from both academic and societal perspectives, highlighting how political, legal, and cultural contexts shape the understanding and practice of the freedom of science. Early-career researchers will discuss how scientific independence relates to democracy, public trust, and human rights, and explore the role that the social sciences can play in this debate. The workshop is structured into two modules. The first module (on February 2, 2026) engages participants with historical, cultural, political, and societal perspectives on the freedom of science, encouraging them to reflect on its relevance for their own research. Participants will also contribute to the preparation of a public panel discussion in March 2026. This event will bring together scholars, experts, and members of the public to foster dialogue on the freedom of science as a societal – not merely scientific – concern, and to reflect on the role of free inquiry in sustaining open and democratic societies. The second module will take place after the public event (April 13, 2026) and provide space to reflect on its outcomes, assess the discussions, and consider how the insights gained can inform academic work and public engagement with the topic. |
| Learning objectives | By engaging in this workshop, participants will: • Examine current challenges to the freedom of science from multiple perspectives. • Reflect on the interconnections between science, politics, and society. • Develop skills and strategies to communicate on the freedom of science within and beyond academia. |
| Admission requirements | Advanced Master students are welcome! |
| Language of instruction | English |
| Use of digital media | No specific media used |
| Interval | Weekday | Time | Room |
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No dates available. Please contact the lecturer.
| Modules |
African Studies: Recommendations (PhD subject: African Studies) Doktorat Osteuropäische Geschichte: Empfehlungen (PhD subject: East European History) Doktorat Philosophie: Empfehlungen (PhD subject: Philosophy) Doktorat Religionswissenschaft: Empfehlungen (PhD subject: Science of Religion) Doktorat Soziologie: Empfehlungen (PhD subject: Sociology) Doktorat Urban Studies: Empfehlungen (PhD subject: Urban Studies) Gender Studies: Recommendations (PhD subject: Gender Studies) History: Recommendations (PhD subject: History) |
| Assessment format | continuous assessment |
| Assessment registration/deregistration | Reg.: course registration; dereg.: not required |
| Repeat examination | no repeat examination |
| Scale | Pass / Fail |
| Repeated registration | no repetition |
| Responsible faculty | Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, studadmin-philhist@unibas.ch |
| Offered by | Zentrum für Afrikastudien |