Freedom of expression exercised in social sciences departments of universities in Pakistan

Abstract

This research aimed at determining the causes behind lack of freedom of expression in educational institutions which has led to extremist and violent acts of violence being carried out in such places. The study focused on the role of the faculty and how they promote the very basic democratic right of freedom of expression. Ignoring important issues and suppressing debates and dialogue has always been the case in the Pakistani society. Information and expression has always known restriction in the course of history, impositions led down by Autocratic leaders in the shape of Military takeovers. But it was also witnessed how an ordinance on freedom of information was passed during the tenure of a so called military dictator, Former President Pervez Musharraf, which is the firm basis of a democratic structure. Extremism and Intolerance cannot be eliminated from our society through suppression or through force. The ban on a social media platform like YouTube of 2012, is a clear example. This study aims to show how debates and dialogues on social (ethnic, gender, religious), economic and political issues can bring a progressive, productive feedback. The study was limited to a social sciences program in educational institutions of Pakistan and aimed at focusing on the faculty, their views and their role in the respective departments. Quantitative data methodology was used and quantitative data was gathered in the form of questionnaire surveys. Recommendations have also been given to handle discussions on sensitive issues and topics with a sensible emic approach to curtail the extremist’s elements within a discussion to move it to a direction which is problem-solving and productive. The study aimed at identifying at not only one area where freedom of expression needs most implementation but has covered general areas of where most attention is needed Results of the study indicated that freedom of expression was limited by the faculty of social sciences in educational institutions when sensitive/taboo topics, political participation, social class bias, criticism on military dictators’ topics were taken into account, to prevent it from traits of intolerance. Religion was assessed to be most delicate of all topics.