Much has been made recently of issues of free speech and political correctness. Discussion has been particularly focused campus activities in the U.S. colleges, as well as confrontations between opposing groups. Sometimes, disagreements stem from differing expectations of classroom topics and/or trigger warnings when discussing certain topics. On other occasions, debates involve who deserves a university platform to speak, protestor rights, policing, etc. Often, these debates have been framed around a supposed opposition between the two, as if we can expect either free speech or political correctness. Throughout pop culture, such controversies are also played out in terms of discussions and disagreements surrounding divisive rhetoric, stereotypes, obscenity, offensiveness, and censorship.

What do you think of this debate? Must we choose between free speech and political correctness? Or, can we imagine a compromise between the two? Do you believe that political correctness is an important and/or valid concern on college campuses? Why or why not? Respond in an argumentative essay in which you analyze multiple sides of this debate, take a position and defend it, and utilize relevant examples to make your case. Your 800-1200 word  paper should be in 12 pt. font (Times New Roman, Times, or Ariel), and double-spaced with 1 margins.