The present study examines the impact of media and the Neoconservative movement on academic freedom in higher education in the United States post 9/11 era. In the aftermath of September 11, 2001, much media coverage focused on the Middle East. In addition to traditional news sources, new Internet based outlets emerged. Some of these websites were designed to monitor higher education, with a focus on critical and activist voices of dissent. Because these efforts disproportionately highlighted Middle East Studies, most of the scholars interviewed for this study had connections to the Middle East, in terms of their work in the Academy or the broader community. Thirty one academics from across the United States participated in this research, twenty nine of whom appear in this dissertation. The majority held tenured positions, but a few are untenured professors, lecturers, or independent scholars. Evidence from this research revealed a concerted effort to attack scholars who challenged the mainstream narrative on Israel/Palestine through their actions or ideas. The overwhelming majority of scholars that were interviewed had been targeted based on their criticism of Israeli policies. Racism characterized the attacks on scholars with "perceived" Middle Eastern heritage. All of the academics faced consequences, professionally or personally, as a direct result of their critical perspectives on Israel. However, a spirit of resistance emerged as the common thread linking the narratives of the academics. My research reveals that challenges to our fundamental First Amendment rights are an ongoing reality at the Academy. Furthermore, this study concludes that academic freedom is not simply a philosophical concept, but a principle that must be vigorously exercised and defended at all times. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]