Free to Think features conversation with interesting, thoughtful, and inspiring individuals whose research, teaching, or expression falls at the always sensitive intersection of power and ideas. We'll be speaking with those who have the courage to seek truth and speak truth, often at great risk, as well as with those who support them and share their stories.
Free to Think is a podcast presented by Scholars at Risk, where we celebrate people with the courage to think, question, and share ideas. For information on membership, activities, or donating to Scholars at Risk, visit www.scholarsatrisk.org.
"We are on a constant search for the truth. That is what science and research are all about." Dr. Walter Rosenthal on why Truth Matters at the German Rectors' Conference (HRK)
In this episode, SAR Executive Director Rob Quinn speaks with Dr. Walter Rosenthal, President of the German Rectors Conference and former president of the University of Jena. Dr. Rosenthal reflects on what the "Truth Matters" theme means to him as a scientist, highlighting the essential link between academic freedom and the scientific search for truth. He discusses recent declines in institutional autonomy in Germany, as well as the efforts of rectors and other leaders to increase the resilience of the higher education system across the cultural, political, legal, and financial dimensions. Among other recommendations, Dr. Rosenthal offers a call for academia to engage the broader public with humility and in ways that can reach those who do not normally engage with research.
This year, SAR celebrates 25 years of a global academic freedom movement strong enough to meet the challenges ahead. In this special series, we are inviting higher education leaders from across the network and around the world to share what the 25th anniversary theme Truth Matters means to them and their work. Join the movement »
3 Sept 2026
"That is the moment of maximum inquiry" — Dr. Charles Reeve on why Truth Matters at the Ontario College of Art and Design
Dr. Charles Reeve, Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences and Professor of Visual and Critical Studies at the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD), sees Truth Matters as a challenge to protect expression not only when it is comfortable, but when it unsettles deeply held beliefs. In conversation with SAR Executive Director Robert Quinn, Reeve reflects on the responsibilities of instructors and institutions when students test the boundaries of creative expression, and on the unequal ability of different communities to make their voices heard. For Reeve, discomfort can be central to learning: "At the moment, when you feel that you are being existentially challenged, that is the moment of maximum inquiry. That is the moment of maximum truth-telling." He also discusses supporting an at-risk Iranian filmmaker and how even smaller institutions can participate meaningfully in scholar protection and student advocacy.
25 Aug 2026
Universities as "guardians of reliable knowledge" — Dr. Angela Ittel and Dr. Magdalena Sut-Lohmann on why Truth Matters at TU Braunschweig
Universities serve an essential role in democratic societies by facilitating the creation and exchange of knowledge. That's the case made by Dr. Angela Ittel, President of Technische Universität Braunschweig, in this episode. One way universities live up to that purpose is by welcoming and including scholars who are at risk, Dr. Ittel says, which TU Braunschweig does through their participation in the Phillip Schwartz Initiative (PSI). Her colleague, Dr. Magdalena Sut-Lohmann, shares a compelling example, highlighting her department's work with a PSI-supported scholar from Ukraine studying soil from the frontline to assess war damage on some of the world's most fertile land, and the impact of this research on protecting valuable food sources for society. Tune in to hear how TUB views its role in creating spaces where research, knowledge exchange, and collaboration in service of the public good can flourish.
This year, SAR celebrates 25 years of a global academic freedom movement strong enough to meet the challenges ahead. In this special series, we are inviting higher education leaders from across the network and around the world to share what the 25th anniversary theme Truth Matters means to them and their work. Join the movement »
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Apple Podcasts (US)
4.9 / 5
19 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
6 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 38 / 100
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Quality
42
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YouTube
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Engagement
85
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