Refereed journals in science and medicine are the gatekeepers and repositories of knowledge in their respective fields. Research reported in peer-reviewed journals builds professional careers, determines which drugs and medical devices are licensed, influences what medical treatments become standards of care, and establishes the veracity of…

Examines examples of "information lockdown" by the federal government, including Executive Order 13233 issued by President George W. Bush. Considers the underlying rationale for the lockdown, its policy implications for academics and others who seek regular access to public-sector information, and its threat to democratic society. Includes a…

Two views of the future of peer review for college and university faculty promotion are presented. One proposes that open files will mean less candid peer reviews and that evaluators may be called on to defend their evaluations in court. The second argues that openness has not led to increased litigation. (MSE)

The Teachers Insurance and Annuities Association (TIAA) is criticized for inadequate financial disclosure of its mortgage and real estate investments, especially in the current market. A TIAA vice president responds that the company has not been remiss in reporting changes to its constituents and outlines its present financial status. (MSE)

Serving the public interest is the basis for most state open meeting laws (sunshine laws). To education administrators, the public interest lies in allowing public officials freedom to make decisions according to procedures they determine best meet the needs of their institutions. The conflict among viewpoints is discussed. (MLW)

This third report in a series concerning restraints by government agencies on academic research concerns and recommends withdrawal of a recent presidential directive establishing a mechanism for controlling the release of classified information to the public through a system of prior review by government officials. (MSE)

The American Association of University Professors' Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure reports on potential problems and concerns in government regulation of research opportunities, methods, and use of research results. Federal actions, campus responses to these actions, and the relationship of academic freedom and national security are…

The implications of applying state sunshine laws to state colleges and universities are examined. Considerations of political pressure, loss of privacy for individuals, difficulty in obtaining candid evaluations, and the threat of competition are cited. (MSE)

In a statement of the American Association of University Professors' Committee A on Academic Freedom and Tenure, recently imposed government restraints on disclosure of academic research results are criticized as adding to already excessive restrictions, compromising academic freedom, and susceptible to executive manipulation. (MSE)

A Supreme Court decision supporting disclosure of university faculty peer review files is discussed by faculty in law and other disciplines and by a college president. Arguments address the principles of academic privilege, institutional mission, and the soundness of academic decision making. (MSE)