Montclair State University Limits of Free Speech Paper

In On Liberty, Mill presents one of the most famous arguments in defense of free speech.

Even Mill, however, allowed for some limits. Where we should place limits on free speech is as important a question today as it was then.

For this paper, please read Andrew Marantz’s piece in The New Yorker on right-wing speakers on university campuses and listen to the debate between Nadine Strossen and Thane Rosenbaum (both are posted in the Mill module).

In your response paper, please focus on the following questions:

What are the arguments provided on both sides of the argument about limits to free speech as reported by Marantz and as exhibited in the podcast debate? How would Mill decide in this debate, and which argument(s) do you find most convincing and why?

Rubric

Rubric Sullivan Lind Response_Paper

Criteria

Ratings

Pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeStructure, Grammar, Spelling, Citations

5.0 to >4.0 pts

Full Marks

Almost entirely free of spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors; all sources are cited correctly and completely; paper flows logically to craft a cohesive argument; paragraphs clearly guide the reader through a progression of ideas; uses transitional sentences to develop strong relationships between ideas

4.0 to >3.0 pts

High Marks

May contain a few spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors, but they don’t impede understanding; sources cited correctly and completely; generally well-constructed flow of ideas; paragraphs are ordered thoughtfully, each paragraph relates to central argument; transitional sentences create a logical progression of ideas

3.0 to >2.0 pts

Average Marks

Several spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors that distract the reader; minor citation errors; paper jumps from one idea to the next, lacking a clear structure; occasional connection of ideas between paragraphs; simple sequential rather than transitions based on logic

2.0 pts

Below Average Marks

Contains many spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors; incomplete citations; paper wanders from one idea to the next, making it difficult to distill the argument; limited connection of ideas between paragraphs; paragraphs may lack topic sentences or connection of ideas

2.0 to >0 pts

Low Marks

Pervasive spelling, grammar, or punctuation errors Missing citations; lacking organization and coherence; no connection of ideas between paragraphs; disjointed connection of ideas between paragraphs

5.0 pts

This criterion is linked to a Learning OutcomeContent

12.5 to >7.0 pts

High Marks

Excels in responding to assignment, and demonstrates mastery of course concepts and materials; presents a clear, focused, and compelling argument; paper recognizes the complexities of its argument; argument is thoroughly supported by strong, specific, and appropriate evidence; evidence is clearly introduced, analyzed and connected to the argument

7.0 to >3.0 pts

Average Marks

Responds appropriately to the assignment, demonstrates clear understanding of course concepts and materials; good argument, clearly articulated in thesis, though might need refining; paper’s argument is supported by relevant evidence, though not always the strongest or specific quotations; analysis of evidence needs further development

3.0 to >0 pts

Low Marks

Does not respond to the assignment, displays no familiarity with course concepts or materials; no identifiable argument or thesis; argument is based on little to no evidence; connections between evidence and argument are absent/incorrect

12.5 pts

Total Points: 17.5