Academic freedom has been denied to religion professors wishing to broach controversial issues in the college classroom. The American Association of University Professors' 1940 statement perpetuates that discrimination and should be repudiated. (MSE)

The American Association of University Professors' (AAUP) support for the right of institutions to deny academic freedom to professors of religion is traced historically. It is suggested AAUP would not likely censor an institution that chose to restrain heretical opinions, although this position conflicts with AAUP's strong support for open…

The American conception of academic freedom, which is derived from 18th century Germany, is traced, and the issue of the right of academic freedom for religion professors at church-related colleges is explored. A committee of 15 American professors in 1915 proposed a "Declaration of Principles" that endorsed academic freedom but…