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Etching Depicts Fight Between Reps. Lyon and Griswold
Debate Comparison

Censoring Criticism

After 9/11, Congress passed laws that expanded surveillance powers to protect the country. As in other times of war, we have struggled to balance ensuring safety with protecting civil liberties.

This Debate Comparison is a part of the EDCollection:

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Duration
60-90 minutes
Topic(s)
  • Constitution
  • National Security
  • Politics
  • War
Grade(s)
  • 9-12
  • College/University

You're Exploring Freedom of Expression

Is criticism subject to censorship?

HISTORICAL ORIGINS
Etching Depicts Fight Between Reps. Lyon and Griswold
&

1798: Sedition Act Reins in Newly Established Freedoms

Congress makes criticism of the government a crime for which offenders can be fined or jailed.

&
CONTEMPORARY CONSIDERATIONS

2015: Debating the USA PATRIOT Act

Congress must balance protecting national security and citizens' privacy as it considers renewing the act that gave the government more power to combat terrorism.

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