Academic freedom

Scientific teaching and discovery proceeds by open publication and international peer review: the construction and falsification of theories is driven by independent replication of results.

But Governments worried about military and terrorist applications of basic research increasingly seek to control what can be taught, who can study, and even the dissemination of knowledge.

The music and film industries are also attempting to control research into the weaknesses of security mechanisms that may be in use to protect their products.

Such limitations are by no means cost free. Inhibiting the spread of knowledge is culturally damaging and delays the tangible benefits which science can bring. How should the line be drawn between knowledge which is too dangerous and that which is inexpedient?

> Response to DTI consultation on draft orders
> The Export Control Act 2002
> Strategic Export Controls: The Impact on Cryptography
> Implementing the European Union Copyright Directive