The Right to Freedom

You Are Here: September 30, 2012

In this hour we explore the right to freedom. Recent protests in the middle east and abroad, have put the U.S. freedom to speech under fire. An American-made anti-Islam video has sparked violent revolts against U.S. embassies across the globe. U.S notions of rights to free speech and expression have been met with demands for freedom from insult and disrespect. We explore the differences between personal freedoms and collective rights. We look at misconceptions of Islam, the philosophy behind our rights in the U.S., how the first amendment is represented on the Internet, and what artistic freedom and freedom of the press really mean. We explore how the patriot act continues to affect the rights of U.S. citizens and when our freedoms create conflict.

LISTEN: Right to Freedom: Intro

Introduction to this hour on right to freedom. (Producer Joy Powers)

LISTEN: Right to Freedom: Misconceptions of Islam

We speak to Muslim Americans about protests in the Middle East and discuss their thoughts on the freedom of speech. (Reporter Elizabeth Gillis)

LISTEN: Right to Freedom: The Philosophy of Rights

We explore the history and creation of the freedoms guaranteed to U.S. citizens. (Reporter Matthew Lenczewski)

LISTEN: Extended Interview: The First Amendment and the Internet

We discuss how private, American Internet companies take on the principles of the first amendment abroad. (Reporter Asta Tall)

LISTEN: Extended Interview: Freedom of the Press

We discuss which countries have the most free press and which countries have the most restrictions. (Producer Dillon Rand)

LISTEN: Exclusive Interview: The Patriot Act

We speak to Joseph Whippel, a former CIA operations officer, about the patriot act and how the decade old law affects the rights of Americans. (Reporter Brendan Mattox)

 

Producer Joy Powers