Academic freedom and extramural expression in the US

Reichmann makes the distinction between academic freedom as it relates to scholarship, teaching and extramural expression concerning the world beyond the university and outside an academics area of expertise. He considers the risks associated with the extension of academic freedom to extramural expression and potential jeopardy faced by scholars when moving beyond the walls of the academy. Although the risks are real enough, such a view also 'cuts academia off from the public' that by its very mission it is called to serve. Moreover, in resolving this paradox we cannot assume that 'preemptively limiting the scope of academic inquiry or expression to defined venues, subjects, or audiences will protect scholars' academic freedom.' Hence despite the fact that professors may be disciplined for their extramural expression, the application of the principles or standards of academic freedom have become more essential in the age of social media. In the US, however, things are still precariously balanced, and only recently has even one state high court recognized this right and endorsed this standard.