1940 Statement

Historical Context of Academic Freedom and Tenure

  • 1915 Declaration of Principles: Formulated by the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) to address academic freedom and tenure issues.

  • 1925 Conference Statement: Shorter principles on academic freedom, endorsed by notable educational associations.

  • 1940 Statement: Joint agreement by AAUP and Association of American Colleges to restate principles from previous declarations.

  • 1970 Interpretive Comments: Reevaluation of the 1940 Statement, adapting principles to contemporary needs based on over 30 years of practice.

Purpose of the Statement

  • Promote public support for academic freedom and tenure.

  • Emphasize institutions operate for the common good, reliant on a free search for truth.

  • Highlight the significance of academic freedom in teaching and research.

Academic Freedom Defined

  • Essential for truth advancement in research and for teachers' rights in education.

  • Involves responsibilities alongside rights:

    • Freedom in research and publication.

    • Freedom in classroom discussions, without stray controversial issues unrelated to the subject.

    • Teachers are citizens and scholars, expected to balance freedom of expression with institutional representation.

Tenure Objectives

  • A means to achieve:

    • Freedom of teaching and research.

    • Economic security to attract talented individuals.

  • Indispensable for fulfilling obligations to students and society.

Conditions and Limitations

  1. Research Freedom: Complete freedom in research and publication, subject to proper institutional agreements for pecuniary return.

  2. Classroom Freedom: Teachers may discuss their subject freely, avoiding controversial matters unrelated to the curriculum.

  3. Extramural Speech: Faculty may speak publicly but must avoid acting as representatives of the institution.

  4. Tenure Decisions: Must be made at least 12 months prior to the end of the probationary period; notice of nonreappointment should be written and timely.

  5. Termination: Continuous appointments can only be terminated for adequate cause or financial exigencies.

Responsibilities of Faculty

  • Teachers must maintain high standards of accuracy and restraint in their public expressions. They must also promote understanding of academic freedom and its significance.

  • Any charges against faculty must allow for a fair hearing and representation, documenting all proceedings adequately.

Essential Concepts of Tenure Process

  • Norms for probationary appointments: should not exceed seven years, with notice required prior to the end of the probation.

  • Written agreements on prior service, clear terms of appointments, and protections during the dismissal process are critical.