“Middle East Studies Under Siege”
by Joan W. Scott
The Link, January-March, 2006
(full text)

In the post-9/11 period, those in Middle Eastern Studies are under governmental and public scrutiny more than ever. Non-academic organizations, ranging from governmental to religious or political organizations, hold power over the actions of universities, professors, and students. The Patriot Act, lobbies, and the vilification of Islam have given those with specific agendas the ability to exert influence over academia. Joan W. Scott gives many examples of intimidation and misinformation against scholars in recent years. (Back to academic freedom).