Primer of Intellectual Freedom

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“The best test of truth is the power of thought to get itself accepted in the competition of the market,..truth is the only ground upon which [men’s] wishes safely can be carried out. That at any rate is the theory of our Constitution.” — Justice Holmes

It is a matter of pride to bring out the Primer—latest addition to the Harvard list, first priority on a crowded manufacturing schedule. It is a matter of conviction that thousands of Americans, caught in a wicked cross fire of argument about the meaning of freedom of opinion and discussion, will turn to the Primer for a glowing reminder of their national and cultural tradition.

For the first time, Primer of Intellectual Freedom places within the covers of a single book the crucial modern documents in the long struggle to establish freedom of discussion and of investigation. They range from Bacon’s Advancement of Learning to Chancellor Hutchin’s statement before the Subversive Activities Commission of the Illinois State Legislature. Each document is preceded by a brief, factual statement of the occasion which brought it forth; together they constitute shining evidence—and a unique casebook—in the history of political and academic liberty.