Free Speech in Times of Crisis

Presented by Stephen Wolgast

"Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press…" With these simple words in the First Amendment, U.S. citizens are granted an inalienable right to express their opinions, a right that does not dissipate at times when society is under stress and disagreements get heated. Even when we do not agree with someone's language, we believe in the speaker's right to utter it. History shows us, however, that sometimes people in positions of authority actively work to close off public discussion. This presentation looks at the reasons free speech is protected and explores how the use of social media and terms like "fake news" can hinder public discourse. Pulitzer, and the history of journalism in the United States.

Sponsored by: MidAmerica Nazarene University

For more information about this event, please contact:
Bruce Flanders
(913) 782-3750 x161
http://www.mnu.edu