Many US students are becoming increasingly hesitant to share their opinions in class, according to studies.[8135614][8135673] This trend is seen as a significant shift from the traditional American value of open debate and discussion.[8135614][8135673] Protesters in the US have long seen freedom of speech as a fundamental right.[8135614][8135673] However, at the university level, students are increasingly choosing to keep their thoughts to themselves.[8135614][8135673]