Critical Thinking about Free Speech and Censorship

A well-researched and heavily documented look at the issue of censorship of sexually explicit material. Citing many examples of recent censorship efforts, it dissects the popular arguments for censorship, examining what the research evidence on the harmful effects (or lack thereof) of sexually explicit material actually shows. The reasons why some feminists find censorship appealing, as well as the hate speech movement on college campuses, are also examined. Presenting suggestions for policies to deal with sexual violence that don't involve censorship, the author, who is Past President of Feminists for Free Expression, is squarely for free speech and the First Amendment.

The constitutional right to free speech is the framework used by this noted First Amendment scholar to dissect examples of current censorship efforts. The dangers and the seduction of the "humanitarian" approach to justify censorship and the punishment of those deemed "politically incorrect" are also examined.

Presenting a moral argument in favor of free speech, the author asserts that the principle of "thou shalt not harm others with words" is ultimately an attack on all liberal inquiry and, in fact, science itself.

Articles on both sides of topics that include "The Media and Political Correctness," "Freedom of Expression on Campus," "Cultural Diversity," "Quotas and Diversity." Writers include Allan Bloom, Dinesh D'Souza, Stanley Fish, Irving Howe, Diane Ravitch, George Reisman, Catherine Stimpson.

Relevant Books in the Greenhaven "Opposing Viewpoints" Series: This series presents articles on both sides of controversial issues, with introductions and exercises that encourage critical thinking. Can be read by teens and young adults.

Free Speech

Topics include "Should Government Funding of the Arts Be Restricted?, " Should Pornography Be Censored?," "Should Unrestricted Speech Be Allowed on Campus?" Writers include Nat Hentoff, Andrea Dworkin, E.L. Doctorow.

Topics include "Should the News Media Be Regulated?," "Is School and Library Censorship Justified?" Writers include Nat Hentoff, Phyllis Schlafly

Topics include "How Should the Right to Privacy Be Defined?," "How Can Civil Liberties Be Protected?," "Should Church and State Be Separate?"

Topics include "Are Diverse Traditions Fairly Represented in American Education?," "Should Government Enforce Cultural Values?," "Is American Culture Decadent?" Writers include Camille Paglia, Dinesh D'Souza, Allan Bloom and Tipper Gore.

Similar to adult series but aimed at Reading Level Grades 4-6, with activities and exercises.