Positive and negative freedom
What do we really mean when we talk about freedom? Do we mean freedom from coercion and obstruction or freedom to act in accordance with our innermost desires? Gina Gustavsson, researcher in political science, explains why it can actually be an act of freedom to prevent a friend from drinking a glass of wine.
Differences of opinion – a path to knowledge
In the polarised climate of debate today, it is easy to become stuck in your opinions. Folke Tersman, Professor of Practical Philosophy, has written a book that helps us adopt a more questioning attitude. In this article he discusses how we can let go of our self-importance and escape the craving to be right.
Academic freedom requires legal support and resources
COLUMN: "What has happened is that academic activities at our universities and colleges, which demand independence, have been allowed to slip into a relationship of obedience to the state without any discussion of principle", writes Shirin Ahlbäck Öberg, Professor of Political Science, in this column.
Why is academic freedom so important?
Free research paved the way for the rapid development of a vaccine against COVID-19. Yet academic freedom cannot be taken for granted in Sweden today. Christina Kullberg, Linda Wedlin and Dag Blanck offer their perspectives on how research should be governed.
When Swedes agree to pause democracy
Although we cherish our representative government, a study shows that many Swedes consider it acceptable to pause democracy. A surprising finding, according to Sten Widmalm, one of the researchers behind the study. “It means we’ve become a little lazy in our thinking. We rather take democracy for granted.”
Free from MS after effective treatment
Is MS curable? In some cases, it appears the answer is yes. Senior Physician Joachim Burman tells us about the treatment that enables former MS patients to live a life free from flare-ups and medication.
Free from cancer thanks to virus
Immunotherapy is a new weapon against cancer. Angelica Loskog’s research group has developed a virus that can penetrate cancer cells and activate the immune defence.
Recipe for fossil-free fuels
Is it possible to use nature’s own processes to create the fuels of the future? Certainly, say researchers at Uppsala University, who are now trying to use the sun, water and carbon dioxide to produce fuel by artificial photosynthesis.
Controversial quote
The words are engraved in golden letters above the entrance to the Grand Auditorium in the University Main Building in Uppsala: “To think freely is great, to think rightly is greater”. The maxim is a quote from Thomas Thorild, who studied in Uppsala in the 18th century – a provocative and controversial thinker who stirred debate in his day.
