In a recent article for Times Higher Ed, Catherine Montgomery (University of Edinburgh) and Catelijne Coopmans advocate for the creation of a sense of “visceral safety” in academia to improve outcomes. While academia is an inherently competitive field, the authors explain, academics do not benefit from a chronic sense of being on edge and defensiveness. “By designing academic spaces with awareness of how nervous systems work,” they explain, “we can boost both academic well-being and academic performance.” They outline ways that institutions and individuals alike can use a “visceral safety” lens to create an environment where academics feel comfortable taking more risks, be receptive to cultural criticism, and sustain their creativity.
