“The University of New Brunswick philosophy department found itself in hot water after canceling a lecture featuring a conservative Christian speaker. Dr. Corey Miller, from the US evangelical organization Ratio Christi, was initially set to deliver a speech titled ‘Is Christianity Good or Bad for Civilization?’ as part of a lecture series on the philosophy of religion at UNB. However, concerns over the title led to a change to ‘Religious Beliefs: Axiological Reflections on Western Civilization.’ Unfortunately, the worries didn’t end there. One student expressed concern over Miller’s past media coverage involving a dispute over LGBT issues, resulting in the department deciding to cancel the lecture altogether.”
The Fear of Being Outed
The decision to cancel Dr. Corey Miller’s lecture at the University of New Brunswick has raised questions about the institution’s fear of being seen as conservative and Christian. The philosophy department, fearing that the university might cancel their entire lecture series, chose to preemptively cancel Miller’s speech. Heather Campbell, a UNB communications officer, stated that the decision was a mutual one between the university and Ratio Christi, but Miller disputes this, believing that the faculty canceled his lecture due to their apprehension about their conservative Christian leanings. This incident sheds light on the challenges faced by Christian professors operating in secular university settings.
The Problem with Cancel Culture
Dr. Corey Miller argues that the philosophy faculty at UNB acted out of fear and have become part of the cancel culture problem. This is not the first time a controversial speaker has been canceled due to concerns over potential controversy. Robert Thomas, president of the Society for Academic Freedom and Scholarship, criticizes the decision, stating that demands for conformity and purity tests for speakers limit the exchange of ideas necessary for a robust education in a pluralistic and free society. The ongoing trend of cancel culture on college and university campuses raises questions about the value placed on freedom of thought and speech.
The Ripple Effect and Lost Opportunities
While the UNB philosophy faculty expressed a desire for Dr. Corey Miller to speak, concerns about potential controversy led them to cancel the lecture. This decision not only hinders freedom of thought and speech but also demonstrates a lack of intellectual courage. The cancellation of controversial speakers impoverishes campus culture and limits the ability to confidently confront differences of opinion and belief. Ultimately, canceling Dr. Miller’s lecture at UNB represents a missed opportunity for meaningful dialogue and the exchange of ideas.
Conclusion: Balancing Freedom and Controversy
The cancellation of Dr. Corey Miller’s lecture at the University of New Brunswick raises important questions about the balance between academic freedom, freedom of speech, and the fear of controversy. While it is understandable that some may have concerns about potential backlash and controversy, it is essential to foster an environment where diverse perspectives can be shared and debated in a respectful manner. The incident at UNB serves as a reminder to university campuses everywhere to strive for inclusivity, intellectual courage, and the preservation of freedom of thought and speech.
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