Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Merrill (journalism, University of Missouri) explores the conflict between journalistic license and social control. Drawing on the ideals of philosophers from Herachitus to Hegel, he argues for a synthesis that recognizes the usefulness of tension between opposing values. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

For advocates of freedom of expression, bracketing the terms freedom and responsible tends to set teeth on edge, for the latter is so often a word used to justify restriction. Real freedom, to these advocates, is the freedom to be irresponsible. Thoughtful readers of Merrill's book will experience some such distress. However, the fundamental aim of this work is really not to propose limits on freedom of expression but rather to explore a range of philosophical issues for journalists within the context of reporting as a business enterprise. These issues include the real meaning of freedom and the nature of ethical right conduct. It is, in fact, the ethical issues that are the real focus. Along the way, Merrill calls on the support of virtually every major figure in the history of Western philosophy. For his intended audience of journalists (and those who teach them), Merrill's study should be taken in small doses with opportunity to reflect on what is written. Interestingly, the selected bibliography contains not a single reference to modern American studies in freedom of expression. Appropriate for graduate students and faculty, primarily. -P. E. Kane, SUNY College at Brockport