Overview
 

In recent years, Cornell University has shifted from its founding mission of pursuing “knowledge and truth” to prioritizing “assertive political action.” This shift has clouded the university’s intellectual environment with ideological dogma and intolerance. As a result, a survey by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) found that 88% of Cornell students self-censor their speech. Additionally, Cornell ranks 188th out of 203 U.S. universities in supporting free expression.
 

This environment contradicts Cornell’s stated goals and is marked by the following concerns:

• A lack of viewpoint diversity among faculty and staff, with surveys indicating a 99% political monoculture.

• Increasing political and intellectual conformity imposed on students and faculty.

• A growing “aura of fear” among community members, discouraging open dialogue.

• Policies and practices that undermine religious freedom, free inquiry, and intellectual diversity.
   

CFSA aims to address these challenges by recommending university-wide policy reforms grounded in the principles of Free Expression, Academic Freedom, and Viewpoint Diversity.