Philosophy Faculty in Chaos: Totalitarianism or Academic Freedom?
Has the Philosophy Faculty in Belgrade become a place where freedom of thought is stifled like in North Korea? Professor Čedomir Antić says yes! At the last academic council meeting, a whopping 147 people voted against discussing student blockades, with only seven in favor. This is not just a vote; it’s the collapse of the academic community, Antić claims, comparing the atmosphere to totalitarian regimes like the Third Reich and the Soviet Union.
Antić tried to voice his opinion publicly but received a collective, anonymous response without names, further proving his point about the totalitarian mindset at the faculty. He points out that professors of pedagogy, andragogy, and classical studies are behind this stance.
These statements sparked a storm on social media. Some praise Antić’s courage and believe an open discussion about the blockades is necessary, while others accuse him of further polarizing an already tense situation. Some even claim the blockaders are violent and should be expelled from the faculty.
What’s going on at the Philosophy Faculty?
- At the last council, 147 people voted against discussing the blockades.
- Only seven were in favor.
- Antić says this is the collapse of the faculty and resembles totalitarianism.
- The response to his article was collective, anonymous, and unsigned.
Why does this matter?
The Philosophy Faculty has traditionally been a place of freedom of thought and debate. If every discussion on important issues like student blockades is suppressed, that’s a red flag. Has the academic community become closed and intolerant? Is fear of dissent spreading like a virus?
What do students and the public say?
Reactions are mixed. Some support Antić and believe it’s time to openly acknowledge and solve the faculty’s problems. Others think the situation is exaggerated and the blockades have their reasons.
Conclusion
The Philosophy Faculty in Belgrade is at a crossroads. Will it continue to be a bastion of freedom and critical thinking, or will it become a place where dissenting opinions are punished? Čedomir Antić has thrown down the gauntlet to the academic community. Now it’s up to them to respond – will they open up for dialogue or keep closing the doors?
What do you think? Is this just another academic drama or a serious problem? Drop a comment, let’s hear the voice of reason or at least a good joke about totalitarianism in academia!
