Education, like other facets of our society, is constantly changing to adapt to advancements in technology, thought, and policy. However, not every change is necessarily positive. Issues of free speech have made national headlines — whether it’s an op-ed in The Daily Princetonian or a news piece in Campus Reform documenting violent responses to a peaceful protest. The ideology behind such actions is being carried into other aspects of collegiate life, slowly eradicating the very purpose of education: to engage in thoughtful discourse.

Collegiate education has always held an esteemed place in our society, a space that encourages critical thinking, thoughtful engagement with various ideas, and differing viewpoints. The ability to express one’s opinion is a right guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution. But what we are seeing now is a battle among students and faculty on what free speech means and the degree to which free speech is accepted on college campuses.