Free Speech on Campus
Professor Lee Epstein and Chancellor Andrew D. Martin
Political Science 334
Spring 2022
1. Description. For generations controversies over free expression have rocked campuses across the United States. Through a series of case studies, this course explores how the First Amendment's guarantees of freedom of expression play out in colleges and universities. Readings consist of court decisions, theories, and commentary on free expression, as well as background material on the real-world controversies we analyze.
2. Readings. All readings are freely available via links on the course outline page.
3. Procedures, etc. In accord with Wash U policies, January classes will be taught online via Zoom; the sections also will be led via Zoom. When in-person classes resume, the class will meet in 403 AB Hall. Click here for more information about the procedures, contact information, and office hours. Please note: Sections will NOT be held the week of January 17.
4. Evaluation Method. We base your grades on class attendance and participation (40%) and three short essays (60%). Please email your essays to your section TA and cc Prof. Epstein (epstein@wustl.edu).
Each essay should be no longer than five pages (including references), double spaced with 1-inch margins, using 12-point Times New Roman font.
The first essay is due on February 16 February 25. You should select two of the justifications for free expression that we considered in class on January 26. After describing the justifications, analyze their strengths and weaknesses. To illustrate your points, please draw on speech controversies we discussed in class.
For the second and third essays, please select two of the case-controversies we'll cover in class—one from before Spring Break [Renamings, Be Careful What You Post] and one after Spring Break [Provocateurs at Commencement, Traditional Journalistic Practices Meet the 21st Century, The Professor Who Wouldn’t Write a Letter of Recommendation]. One week after we discuss the controversy in class, please submit an essay explaining the arguments on both sides and analyzing each side's strengths and weaknesses.