Brown University and PLoS ONE: Defend academic freedom and scientific inquiry

The truth needs to be told.

This is outrageous. Academic work should never be censored over political pressure.

What use is a University without unprejudiced search for the truth?

Academic freedom must not be surrendered to the demands of transactivists. We need real research on these issues not just statements that confirm transactivists ideas. Stop censoring important work from fear of bullying.

Brown University's actions in its failure to support Dr. Littman's peer reviewed research are abhorrent. Richard Krueger M D Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons

Why are transgender activists so anti-science?

It is sad and telling they’re actually has to be a petition for this.

This is important research whereby the health and well-being of children is concerned. Its methodology, the limitations of which are addressed, is not atypical. The conclusion calls for more robust research and that’s exactly what’s needed. Let scientists commit acts of science.

Keep looking for truth!

Parent of older teen with sudden severe dysphoria that blindsided and nearly broke us. She thought being trans was answer, but it led to yearlong decline. She gradually improved over summer. Took lots of love, acceptance, tearful talks, good diet, sleep and exercise, distance from social media, internet and high school stress. She reconnected with great outdoors and wider variety of people; got meds and therapy for anxiety, depression and eating disorder. Daughter is now off to college, happy and confident in her individuality and womanhood. It could have been very different outcome. When our youth struggle with identity, we need more tools than just immediate trans affirmation. One size does not fit all! #ROGD is definitely a thing!

As a published scientist I am extremely concerned that a group of ideologues can bully an educational establishment. Criticism of research methods is part of the scientific process and is done regularly in academia, campaigning against research findings for ideological reasons has no place in academia.

Academic freedom must be preserved

I support the research

Please be the voice of reason! How is it harmful to allow a 12-18 year old to wait , mature before using harmful hormones and surgery to transition? When did hormones become safe to use? Why are we allowing body mutilation of young people? The truth is the trans lobby is being funded by big pharma and more money is being spent to forward this ideology. It's a crime against our children.

Academic freedom is paramount to an informed citizenry. Prove it wrong. Don't censor it.

I, although male, have myself suffered from rapid onset gender dysphoria as an adolescent, so I believe it's very valuable and important that this phenomenon be researched. The research should not be removed from publication under pressure from ideologically motivated activists, who stand in the way of free scientific inquiry.

As a social scientist, I feel strongly that this important research be allowed to move forward and not be stymied by social pressure. Gender dysphoria is a highly underesearched topic that has increasingly widespread implications for society, while lacking the underlying understanding of its parameters. To stifle a legitimate exploration of these parameters is no more than censorship.

Nobody, least of all trans people, is served by curtailing research in this area. Detransitioners exist, and they deserve appropriate care as much as do those who are permanently trans.

ludicrous and frightening at one and the same time.

I am the Research Professor acknowledged in the paper for assistance with the manuscript. The decision to ‘seek further expert assessment on the study’s methodology and analyses’ threatens to undermine the integrity of PLOS ONE by publicly calling into question the authority of, and confidence those connected with the journal can have in, the Editorial Board and its processes. Please note, the author has fully recognized and articulates the limitations of her work in accordance with the highest standards of critical scholarship exacted by PLOS ONE reviewers. It is essential to remind all concerned with PLOS ONE that complete confidence in the Board has been retained at all times. At this juncture, it would also be apposite for advice to be issued on how both PLOS ONE and Brown University will ensure the continued safety and independence of academics, authors, journal reviewers and others associated with their institutions and work. Full confidence in the original Editorial decision to publish is required.