Left-leaning student groups at the University of Würzburg accuse two conservative historians, Peter Hoeres and Benjamin Hasselhorn, of promoting neoreactionary views and having connections to right-wing extremist circles. The accusations center around Hasselhorn's past pseudonymous publications in the right-wing magazine "Sezession."
Hasselhorn admitted to publishing in "Sezession" under a pseudonym over a decade ago. While he maintains his articles didn't violate principles of the liberal-democratic order, students call for his dismissal. He argues that his attempts to engage with the right-wing were meant to prevent their descent into fundamental opposition.
Hoeres, Hasselhorn's superior, defends his colleague, arguing that the accusations are based on 'publication guilt' and that the university should uphold academic freedom. He points out that the students haven't engaged in direct conversation with him or Hasselhorn before taking their concerns public.
The students involved, primarily from the left-wing and Green factions, are accused of orchestrating a campaign for maximum publicity. They deny this, maintaining their right to raise concerns. However, the fact that the student parliament meeting where this was decided was attended by the press supports the allegations.
The university has issued a brief statement referencing academic freedom and the obligation to constitutional loyalty. Hoeres and Hasselhorn are considering legal action against the students for defamation and false accusations. The situation highlights tensions between student activism, academic freedom, and the handling of potentially controversial opinions within academia.