A recent survey indicates a disturbing trend among undergraduate students regarding free speech. The 2026 National Undergraduate Student Survey found that 45 percent of students believe physical violence is justifiable to stop "hate speech." This represents an increase from the previous year and matches a previous record. The survey also revealed that 46 percent of students support shout-downs as a means to silence offensive ideas. Furthermore, 40 percent believe that offensive speech should be subject to criminal prosecution. A significant 42 percent of respondents reported that disagreeable political comments harm their mental health, a record high. These findings have led some to believe higher education has lost its moral compass. Critics suggest universities are now teaching resentment and entitlement rather than fostering critical thinking and moral development. The concern is that graduates are being equipped with a desire for grievance politics and a destructive mindset. University leaders are calling for a shift back to prioritizing moral formation over entitlement and grievance culture. The survey polled 803 undergraduate students across the United States.