College Students' Perception of Words as Violence Following Charlie Kirk's Assassination

The assassination of free speech activist Charlie Kirk in early September 2025 has significantly influenced American college students' perceptions of free speech and the relationship between words and violence. A recent survey conducted by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) revealed that over 90% of college students believe that "words can be violence." This finding raises concerns about the implications for free expression in academic environments.

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The survey, which included responses from more than 2,000 college students, found that 91% agreed to varying extents that words can constitute violence, while only 9% disagreed. Additionally, 79% of respondents endorsed the idea that "silence is violence." Sean Stevens, chief research advisor for FIRE, emphasized the troubling nature of these beliefs, stating, “When people start thinking that words can be violence, violence becomes an acceptable response to words.” This perspective is particularly alarming in the context of Kirk's murder, which serves as a stark example of the potential consequences of conflating speech with violence.

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The survey also highlighted a growing discomfort among students regarding the expression of controversial opinions. Approximately 45% of respondents reported feeling less comfortable sharing views in class, and 48% felt similarly about social media interactions. Notably, this trend was more pronounced among conservative students, who expressed heightened concerns about their safety in academic settings.

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The survey results further illustrated a significant ideological divide among students. While moderate and conservative students showed a decreased acceptance of tactics such as shouting down speakers or using violence to disrupt campus events, liberal students maintained or slightly increased their support for these actions. Specifically, 28% of students believed that using violence to prevent a speech is sometimes acceptable, with 26% endorsing throwing projectiles and 20% supporting physical assault as acceptable responses.

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Despite the alarming findings, 73% of students acknowledged that political violence is a problem among conservatives, while 63% agreed it is also an issue among progressives. This acknowledgment reflects a broader concern about the state of political discourse on campuses.

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FIRE's report underscored the need for a reevaluation of how free speech is perceived in educational institutions. The organization called for a renewed commitment to fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints can be expressed without fear of violence or retribution.

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While the survey indicates a significant shift in attitudes toward free speech and violence, it does not provide a comprehensive analysis of the underlying causes of these beliefs. Further research is needed to understand the broader societal influences contributing to this phenomenon.

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• “When people start thinking that words can be violence, violence becomes an acceptable response to words,” — Sean Stevens, Chief Research Advisor, FIRE

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• “The report stated, “Concern is significantly more pronounced among students at UVU, and among politically conservative students nationwide.” — FIRE Report

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The findings from this survey highlight a critical moment in the discourse surrounding free speech on college campuses, particularly in light of recent violent events. The implications of these attitudes warrant careful consideration as educational institutions navigate the complexities of free expression and political discourse.

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