Autocratic Legalism and the Threat to Academic Freedom: Are We Learning the Right Lessons from Europe?

By Marc Weinstein and Joy Blanchard

Abstract:

In the twenty-first century, the rise of authoritarian governance poses a threat to liberal democracies through the erosion of political and civic institutions. This article investigates the legislative assault on academic freedom by current and aspiring autocrats. Coined as “authoritative legalism” by Kim Lane Scheppele, this strategy involves “reforms” in the judiciary, electoral system, media, and education sectors to consolidate power and suppress opposition. We examine Hungary’s prime minister Viktor Orbán’s illiberal agenda, which resulted in the closure of Central European University, the elimination of gender studies, and reduced faculty involvement in higher education governance. The article also addresses similar efforts in the United States, which attempt to emulate Orbán’s strategy. Recognizing the potential consequences of these repressive tactics, we conclude by emphasizing the importance of faculty engagement and solidarity as crucial measures to safeguard and fortify academic freedom in the United States.

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