Higher Education Forum: Session No.59:Academia, democracy and everything in between

June 16, 2023, 11:00-12:30, via Zoom

Chairman and Moderator: Prof. Yael Shiloni Dolev

Given the ongoing struggle to define the image and values of the State of Israel as a democratic entity, we will be hosting a discussion on the reciprocal relationship between liberal democracy and academia, particularly in terms of their respective spheres of operation and ethos.

During the discussion, we will explore a number of questions, including whether or not academia can truly exist without democracy, and conversely, whether a democratic society requires free academia in order to thrive. Additionally, we will consider whether free academia serves as a gatekeeper for upholding democratic principles in society.

Given the current era of post-truth, the rise of populist regimes, and the global threat to the liberal democratic model, it may be necessary for academia to redefine its role. Specifically, what implications does this hold for academia in Israel?

Meeting Program:

Greetings: Dr. Vered Ariel-Nahai, CEO BaShaar
Opening remarks: Prof. Shimon Yankelevitch, Chairman of the Higher Education Forum, BaShaar
Chairman and supervisor: Prof. Yael Hashiloni Dolev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and BaShaar.
Panel participation (in alphabetical order):
Prof. David Enoch, Department of Philosophy and Faculty of Law, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Prof. Meni Mautner, Faculty of Law, Tel Aviv University
Prof. Tzila Sinwani-Stern, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Prof. Amil Jamel, Tel Aviv University

Questions from the audience