Professor Loses Appeal Over Firing for Racial IQ Gap Article (1)

Nov. 4, 2025, 2:57 PM UTC

A Cleveland State University professor can’t revive a lawsuit challenging his termination after he co-wrote an article advancing a theory that genetics cause a “racial IQ gap,” the Sixth Circuit ruled Tuesday.

The ruling provides clarity on the recurring issue of the balance between the free-speech rights of academics and the ability of universities to discipline an employee for research-related misconduct, including on controversial topics.

Bryan Pesta lacked evidence the stated reasons for firing him were a pretext for retaliation over ...

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