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Freedom of Expression
COURSE OBJECTIVES
This course examines the meaning, scope and challenge of “free expression"
in the American experience.
Beginning with the historical and philosophical roots
of the U.S. Constitution and the First Amendment,
students will critically examine
how the courts, writers, politicians, artists and social activists have interpreted
and applied
these rights to a number of controversial issues. Topics will include prior restraint, political and social commentary, artistic expression, symbolic speech, and the news media and the judiciary. Another goal of this course is to examine the deeper and richer question; what does it mean to be an American?
REQUIRED READINGS AND COURSE MATERIALS
Readings
There will be two sets of readings for this class. The first is a coursepack containing a collection of eight readings from different books and journals under
a heading entitled: Freedom of Expression (Com. 3070) Select Readings.
This will be made available for purchase on-line from Cognella Press.
The second set
of readings will be available on-line via the Internet for your use.
Course Pack - Power Point Presentations
A Com. 3070 course pack containing power point slides will be available for purchase at
the WMU campus bookstore. It will be available under the heading
Freedom of Expression (Com. 3070)Course Notes.
Notebook
A three ring binder -- with section tabs
Evaluation
There will be four exams. Each exam is worth 25% of your final grade
Grading Scale
| 93-100 A 87- 92 B/A 82- 86 B 76- 81 C/B |
70-75 C 65-69 D/C 60-64 D - 59 E |
Course Description and Outline
Assigned Readings
Cognella Press: Ordering Instructions