Freedom of Information Laws Affect the Autonomy of American Universities
AbstractThis article examines the impact of freedom of information laws on the autonomy of American universities. It begins by sketching the history of the "right to know" and the structure and function of the university. This is followed by an analysis of recent case law which is changing the acknowledged powers and privileges of the university. The author recognises the tension between the need to maintain public trust through accountabiity and the desire to foster academic freedom, efficiency and to preserve privacy. She argues that universities should become more open with operations such as presidential/chancellor searches, crime statistics and peer review. Disclosure and openness should be achieved voluntarily, thus avoiding the need for legal intervention or enforcement of change. Guidelines recently announced by President Clinton and Attorney-General Janet Remo which emphasize a presumption of disclosure are recommended. |