Examine freedoms and potential pitfalls in these freedoms.
Freedom of Speech
Most Americans believe that the First Amendment is the most important aspect of American culture. The
freedom of speech affords us all the ability to speak our minds without political backlash. Though this is one of
our most cherished freedoms, it is not without its pitfalls. Hate speech, racial epithets, and other types of
degrading speech are covered under the First Amendment, but it is difficult if not impossible to find merit in
these types of speech. Should the freedom of speech be absolute? Should some kinds of speech be censored
by the government? Why? Why not?
Pornography
Pornography is, was, and will be a controversial topic in American society. Many would argue that though some
pornographic material is offensive it should not be censored by the government. Others would argue that
pornographic materials are clouding and corrupting the minds of the youth of our nation. Should pornography
be covered by the First Amendment or should it be censored by the government?
Gun Control
Americans love guns. The Second Amendment gives us this right and many people take advantage of it. Guns
are used by millions of Americans for hunting and safety. Guns also have a far more sinister role in our society.
Gun crimes will always be a sordid fact of our lives and many criminals attain them illegally. Guns are also
discovered and confiscated fairly irregularly. Would stricter gun laws make our country safer? Are gun laws
strict enough? Or are they just right?
Link to sources we've used in class:
Freedom of speech:
"On Racist Speech" by Charles Lawrence if you're able to find it
https://www.doe.mass.edu/mcas/pdf/2017/EL710249956.pdf
Porn:
https://www.nytimes.com/1978/01/26/archives/hers.html
http://www.susanbrownmiller.com/susanbrownmiller/html/antiporno.html
Guns:
https://gimletmedia.com/shows/science-vs/z3hlvr/guns
https://gimletmedia.com/shows/science-vs/o2hojg/gun-control-pt-2
Sample Solution