Swedish Professor Recounts 'Swindling' Censorship Case Over Plato in Texas

Philosophy professor Martin Peterson recounts a startling experience of censorship in Texas, where he was allegedly forbidden from teaching Plato due to his views on homosexuality and gender identity. Peterson, who teaches in Texas, describes the ban, imposed by his university administration and state politicians, as a genuine instance of censorship.

Peterson claims the term 'censorship' is often misused, but argues his situation qualifies. He received an email stating he had 24 hours to remove Plato's 'Symposium' from his syllabus. While he complied, he protested by striking out the title with a red pen, ensuring students could still see what was being omitted from discussion.

"I don't know if I'm allowed to say what I'm saying on this radio program. But I hope nobody in Texas is listening," Peterson reportedly said, highlighting the sensitive nature of the situation. The professor contrasts this experience with a hypothetical Hollywood ending where the administration backs down, noting that reality led to him accepting a new professorship in Dallas.

Peterson also offers a critique of Sweden, suggesting a tendency towards conformity and a lack of open debate, which he contrasts with the situation in the U.S. He notes that while Sweden might be seen as progressive, it faces its own challenges, citing Gaza demonstrations and significant support for the Sweden Democrats. He also recalls studying texts advocating infanticide during his philosophy studies in Uppsala without causing scandal.

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I don't know if I'm allowed to say what I'm saying on this radio program. But I hope nobody in Texas is listening.