Public Discourse
The thin line between fake and fact
The internet provides a forum for democracy in some Southeast Asian countries, but a University of Melbourne expert says it’s also become a tool for fake news.
Trolling in the era of ‘freedom of speech’
A University of Melbourne expert says proposed anti-vilification laws in Victoria to curb online trolling could be a step in the right direction.
How the toxic went mainstream
By use of social media, including memes, ideologies of hate are gaining currency. A University of Melbourne expert examines how hate speech became the everyday
Defining the power of public interest journalism
A University of Melbourne expert says the recent police raids on Australian journalists highlight the modern importance of public interest journalism.
Leader sloganising passed off as a debate
The first leaders' debate of the Australian election was dominated by sloganising, which is why people are turning off, says a University of Melbourne expert.
When women’s rights collide with doctors
Victorian doctors can conscientiously object if a woman wants an abortion; but some see this as the right to obstruct, University of Melbourne research finds.
Academics call for an end to immigration detention
Academics for Refugees are protesting against Australia's policy of detaining refugees. University of Melbourne experts explain why they're adding their voices.
Is our democracy broken?
What could the future hold for Australia's democracy? The University of Melbourne's McKinnon Prize in Political Leadership looks for leaders tackling the future
It’s complicated: Academic freedom and freedom of speech
Academic freedom and freedom of speech are sacred for universities; but this responsibility is often complex according to a University of Melbourne expert.
Academic freedom & free speech in Universities
This episode of the University of Melbourne's Policy Shop podcast explores the state of academic freedom with Professor Adrienne Stone and John Roskam.