Abstract
This article interrogates the relationship between academic freedom and editorial decision making in speech communication journals, situating the debate within the historical framework of the 1940 AAUP statement. Through reflective analysis of submission protocols, referee correspondence, and controversial exemplars, the discussion reveals how gatekeeping practices, including methodological orthodoxy, political sensitivity, and implicit sexism, can constrain intellectual diversity before administrative sanctions ever arise. The narrative contrasts narrow procedural definitions of freedom with a broader ethical vision that champions pluralism, feminist perspectives, and ecumenical methods. By outlining concrete guidelines for editor selection, board composition, and review transparency, the work underscores the responsibility of journals to protect open inquiry while maintaining disciplinary rigor. Implications extend to promotion review, curriculum development, and ongoing debates over publication ethics in communication scholarship.
Recommended Citation
Benson, Thomas W.
(1990)
"Academic Freedom and Scholarly Journals in Speech Communication: An Editor's Perspective,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 73, Article 10.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol73/iss1/10
