Free Speech, Hate Speech, No Speech: First Amendment in a Changing Society

Catalog description

Fundamentals of understanding the First Amendment in relation to speech. Case histories focusing on evolution of control of speech in American culture. Students will learn what hate speech is and when it is legal and when not. Students will discuss political correctness in speech especially on college campuses. Students will identify and understand both classic and contemporary examples of free speech through case studies and current literature. No exam. One op-ed (3 pages) and one in-depth analysis of a historical case about free speech (20 pages). Class will be conducted through online lectures, scheduled chat room and peer group meetings through Sakai site. Extensive readings.