Censoring Publicly Funded Art
...) The value of this embodies an individual's right to free expression. Nevertheless, the First Amendment is not an absolute: it has limits. A democracy assigns individuals the task of choosing the most appropriate manner of life and any mode of censorship restricts these choices and creates a conflict with the ideals of democracy. Specifically, when government funded artwork is removed or confined to specific audiences because of its content, a form of censorship occurs that suppresses artistic expression of ideas and thoughts. Expression of one's self through artistic freedom is a right in the United States. In contrast, our nation's ideals are founded to protect all citizens. The First Amendment "protects the right to freedom of religion and freedom of expression from government interference."(3) Yet, artistic expression suffers with limitations because we live in a free society that attempts to please the majority of its citizens. Censorship of art can not only inhibit artistic talent, but it also violates individual judgment and can potentially be politically dangerous. The desire or need to invoke unusual expressions in everyday life is a passion for some artists and a censor who seeks to limit the distribution of this expression not only harms the artist economically, but also professionally, because the artist cannot share their most thought-provoking work. Art evokes emotions and lets us see the world in new ways. Regardless of content, individuals should be given their own choice of judgment and have the opportunity to view the unique language in which artists can portray things that cannot otherwise be said. By censoring a particular subject or standard, a negative message is also sent out that censorship is acceptable in a society that is based on free expression. This message could possibly extend to other forms of censoring - e.g., political ideas and other free thoughts. On the other hand, censorship may be exerted for political, religious and/or moral reasons and prove to be essential to maintain order, eliminate discrimination, and avoid possible corruption of specific members in a society. Artists, many liberals and citizens of the art world argue that artistic freedom is extremely important. Yet, the fact is that there are works of art that challenge contemporary community standards and depict issues that are politically, religiously or sexually immoral to some citizens. And to sustain order in society as a whole, the governm...