“The New Basics: Discipline”: An essay by Sally Haslanger
How do disciplines structure our search for knowledge? And do we need disciplines? In this essay from our “New Basics” series, renowned philosopher Sally Haslanger looks at the history of the academy, specifically in relation to the need for knowledge in a democratic society. As she argues, healthy democracies rely on dependable sources of knowledge, and this need inspired the American idea of academic freedom. She then goes on to explore the distinction between academic freedom and freedom of speech, noting that a key function of disciplines in the academy is to give a space for experts to develop standards to evaluate competing claims and to provide specialized knowledge. Seen in this light, controversial thought is not out of bounds within the academy, but arguably, certain kinds of undisciplined thought and speech should not be rewarded or supported. After all, expertise on matters of public concern is what universities stand for. You can read her essay here.