Academic freedom in the US declines due to polarization, donor influence, and legislative interference, leading to self-censorship and limited idea exchange.

Academic freedom in the US has diminished due to political & social polarization, donor influence, & legislature interference, according to the V-Dem Institute. Threats include educational gag orders banning critical race theory, overreach by governing boards & trustees, and donors influencing university decisions. These threats lead to self-censorship among faculty and limit idea exchange in higher learning institutions.