Paul McMasters

Many people argue that society will fall into ruin unless the government steps in to restrict Americans’ exposure to sex and violence. Paul McMasters contends, however, that restrictions proposed by the “speech police” are actually censorship and are unnecessary. He maintains that Americans are quite capable of reading and watching what they choose without becoming immoral or criminal. McMasters is the First Amendment ombudsman for the Freedom Forum, an international organization that works to protect free speech.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What is David Lowenthal’s prophecy for America, as cited by McMasters?
2. Who is Thomas Bowdler, and what is his legacy?
3. According to the author, what is behind the urge to censor?

David Lowenthal, professor emeritus of political science at Boston College, offered an argument for...