Oxford boss: Students believe in the right not to be offended

OxfOrd University’s outgoing vice chancellor has warned that some students now believe in ‘a right not to be offended’.

Professor dame Louise richardson said that freedom of speech was ‘pretty robust’ at the elite institution.

But there was an ‘unfortunate’ view among certain undergraduates that they cannot be upset by opposing opinions, she added.

The 64-year- old political scientist’s comments come amid rising numbers of woke rows at campuses across the country and attempts to restrict free speech. Professor richwaded ardson told Oxford’s Cherwell student newspaper: ‘In my matriculation speech, I say to every incoming student that this is a place where you can expect to hear views that you don’t like, and I exhort them to follow the Augustinian precept of “audi alteram partem” – hear the other side.’

She added: ‘I wouldn’t say students are too comfortable, but there is a view amongst some students – and it’s not all students – there is a right not to be offended.

‘I think that’s unfortunate. Education is all about being uncomfortable, about being challenged with views that you hadn’t considered or encountered before and figuring out your position.’

Professor richardson, who became Oxford’s first female vice chancellor in January 2016, also into the row about how to deal with historical legacies.

There have been repeated calls to remove the statue of British imperialist Cecil rhodes at Oxford’s Oriel College. However, the college has previously said ‘regulatory and financial challenges’ prevented this move. An explanatory board ‘contextualising’ the statue was installed last October.

Professor richardson said she grew up in Ireland with the view that Oliver Cromwell was ‘the devil incarnate’. But when she eventually saw his statue outside the House of Commons, she wanted to learn more about the military officer.

She said: ‘It never occurred to me that his statue should be ripped down because he did terrible things in Ireland. I’d love us to educate ourselves on our history to understand more.’

It came as Professor Kathleen Stock, 50 – who was hounded out of her post at Sussex University by trans activists last year – faced noisy protests as she took part in a debate at the Cambridge Union on Thursday night.

Chanting could be heard outside as the professor of philosophy – who has advocated that women should not have to share toilets with transgender women – spoke in favour of the motion ‘ this house believes in the right to offend’.

She tweeted afterwards: ‘Can’t say I had most fun evening but I respect free speech of protestors and those defaming me in the chamber. Interesting points made on both sides. Also, we won.’ The Cambridge Union has been contacted for comment.

‘Education is about being challenged’