Institutions of higher education are conducted for the common good. The common good depends upon the free search for truth and its free exposition.
Academic freedom means that the student has full freedom in research and in the publication of results, subject to their academic standing; but research for the purpose of pecuniary return should be based upon an understanding with the administration of the institution. Students are free in the classroom to discuss the subject being taught, but they should be careful not to introduce into their conversation controversial matters which have no relation to the subject.
In the Institute, as in society as a whole, freedom of speech and expression is contingent upon speech that is not libelous, slanderous, incites to riot or is unlawfully harassing. In addition, speech directed at persons with clear intent to cause substantial injury is not protected by academic freedom.
Students sometimes write or speak as citizens. They should remember that the public may judge their institution by what they say or write. They should at all times exercise appropriate restraint, show respect for the opinions of others, and make every effort to indicate that they are not speaking for the institution.