Brazil - Intellectual and ideological exchange

Many institutions of higher education have advocated that cultivation of the intellect establishes a critical foundation for citizenship. Brazil serves as an important reminder that intellectual and ideological exchange is central to any society and Marcelo Knobel reinforces this idea in his essay, "In defense of academic freedom and Autonomy in Brazil."

Knobel writes, "It is important to emphasize that respectful coexistence is an indispensable condition for universities to fulfill their mission of generating knowledge and training citizens in diverse areas. Infusing the academic environment with anti-democratic and hostile attitudes compromises not only the institution's primary mission, but its relationship with society, which is ultimately the main guarantor of its activities."

Writing in a very real context where abridgment of intellectual inquiry may have been at risk, Knobel reminds educators world-wide of the importance of our work and the mutual dependence of government and university leaders. Brazil is only one example where intellectual and ideological exchange has become difficult; Knobel's transparency and advice may help those struggling in many places around the world.