Geoffrey W. Sutton PhD, Psychology and Culture

Wheaton Chapel Christian Colleges - know before you go Wheaton College was in the news because statements by a professor were questioned. The communication became public. Since then I've heard that professors are being cautious or have been cautioned about what they may say. Conservative Christian colleges declare their beliefs and values. Freedom of speech is restricted as is the freedom to pursue some lines of research. That's why I say, "know before you go." Know what you are committing to as a student, faculty member, or staff member; however, my focus here is on students. And for traditional students who share decisions with parents--this post is for parents too. Seven Facts About Conservative Christian Campus Cultures 1. The Statement of Faith is taken seriously. Read the statement of faith and decide if you believe the words. Life's too short to put on an act. If possible, it's obviously best to learn or work at...

  People are understandably frustrated when they believe they have the right to express anything they want in the US because of the First Amendment to the Constitution, which protects freedom of speech. I am not an attorney so, check what I am saying with an attorney who understands US constitutional law. What I can do is refer readers to sources to learn more. The US Courts at uscourts.gov offers information on what the courts have ruled. I hope this is helpful when considering what people cannot do. Freedom of speech includes the right: Not to speak (specifically, the right not to salute the flag). West Virginia Board of Education v. Barnette, 319 U.S. 624 (1943). Of students to wear black armbands to school to protest a war (“Students do not shed their constitutional rights at the schoolhouse gate.”). Tinker v. Des Moines, 393 U.S. 503 (1969). To use certain offensive words and phrases to convey political messages. Cohen v. California, 403 U.S. 15 (1971). To contribute money (un...