A - potentially intentional - consequence of the actions against the A&M prof:
A chilling effect refers to the discouragement or suppression of the legitimate exercise of legal rights—especially free speech and free expression—due to the fear of legal penalties, government retaliation, or other negative consequences.
In other words, even if an action (like speaking, publishing, or protesting) is technically lawful, people might refrain from doing it because they worry about punishment, lawsuits, investigations, or harassment.
For example:
- If a vague or broad law makes people unsure whether criticizing the government could get them fined or arrested, they may choose to stay silent.
- If journalists fear being sued for defamation when reporting on public officials, they might avoid publishing critical stories, even if those stories are true.
- The term is often used in constitutional law, particularly in discussions of the First Amendment in the United States, where courts strike down laws or government actions if they risk creating a chilling effect on protected speech.
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