Academic freedom means that both social studies educators and students have the opportunity to engage in intellectual debate without fear of censorship or retaliation. Academic freedom gives both social studies educators and students the right to express their views--in speech, writing, and/or through electronic communication without fear of sanction. Academic freedom for social studies educators and students includes the right and responsibility to study, investigate, present, interpret, discuss, and debate relevant facts, issues, and ideas. Academic freedom means that the political, religious, or philosophical beliefs of politicians, administrators, and members of the public cannot be imposed on students or faculty. This National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) position statement discusses the rationale for academic freedom in social studies, the skills and attitudes that should develop from the study of controversial issues, and how to respond to academic freedom challenges.