This segment confronts some of the most pressing challenges to free
speech in America today, with five provocative essays and complex
discussions of this societal value.
- Charles J. Sykes, author, radio host and professor, in his essay "Drawing the Line," questions the role of free speech in a society where the messages of malls, MTV and talk shows contradict family values. With independent producer David K. Liu.
- Rap critic James Bernard, in his essay "Disturbing the Peace," argues invoking controversy through self-expression is a way for traditionally ignored voices to be heard above the din of the mainstream. With independent producer Akili Buchanan.
- Author-in-exile Salman Rushdie, speaking from an undisclosed location, emphasizes in his essay "Inquisition" the singular importance of our inalienable rights. With independent producer Udi Eichler.
- Mari J. Matsuda, a legal scholar who helped inspire the political correctness movement, believes some speech is assault that can and should be banned. With independent producers Orlando Bagwell and Leslie Farrell.
- John Perry Barlow, Grateful Dead lyricist and cyberspace explorer, criticizes the proliferation of fear in our mass media and looks to the information highway as a return to a sense of community and trust. With independent producer Theo Kamecke.
Soapbox commentators: Jeane Kirkpatrick, former ambassador to the United Nations; Nadine Strossen, president of the American Civil Liberties Union; and RENO, standup comedian.
Length: 1 hour
Production Credits:
Producer: Claypoint Productions for ITVS
Executive Producer: Richard O'Regan
Senior Producer: David K. Liu
Segment Producers: David K. Liu, Akili Buchanan, Udi Eichler, Orlando Bagwell, Theo Kamecke and Leslie Farrell
Program One: LIBERTY: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
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DECLARATIONS: ESSAYS ON AMERICAN IDEALS
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