Mark Y. Herring

In the following viewpoint, Mark Y. Herring argues that the Founding Fathers did not intend for free speech to be absolute with no restrictions. It is possible, he contends, to protect intellectual freedom while still censoring obscene or indecent material. The current policy of permitting unrestrained speech in the name of the First Amendment is threatening to destroy society, Herring asserts. Herring is the dean of library services at Oklahoma Baptist University in Shawnee.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What is Irving Kristol’s philosophy concerning censorship, as cited by Herring?
2. According to the author, which historic figures supported restrictions on free speech?
3. In which areas did John Milton advocate censorship, according to Herring?

I have had the pleasure of serving on the executive board of my state’s...