Random questions to which you seek an answer
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Thanks :), that'll do…
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^took the words right out of my mouth.
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The reverse is a rather nice shade of orange though
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Oh.
That's… better?
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Well… Probably not.
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I like it
(there's your reason)
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This is going to take a bit of explanation but could use some honest advice…
Last year I wrote a research paper arguing the the US Patriot Act and its infringement on the basic civil liberties protected under the Bill of Rights for my final project in a class. The professor loved it, and I scored very well. That being said, this is a topic that is very controversial in the United States right now.... anyone who dives into politics even to the slightest degree knows what I am talking about.
Fast forward to approximately a month ago...
I was approached by the head of the one of the Department at the school who is working with a number of people on putting together a book that will serve as future curriculum etc.. She asked if she could have my permission to publish the paper in the book as well as picture and short biography. At first, and without thinking as the discussion took place in passing in the hallway, I told her no problem and would send over a digital copy of the paper.Now... A little background... I am working toward finishing my bachelors and then plan to transfer to the University of Missouri, where I will enter their law school.
With that in mind... I got home that night and really started thinking about the whole situation. As I understand, this book will be used as curriculum in universities throughout the country, granted I understand that it will not be at every school as not all use the same books to teach from. However, I have a great concern about who's eyes this will fall under and the possible ramifications is could cause. I expect that it could be seen by heads of department, professors, and even sponsors of scholarships. I worry that since politics is such a touchy subject that the "gatekeepers" of the doors of opportunity may make my life a nightmare or worse if they are of an opposing perspective. SOOO.... what do I do? I know that being published in this book will look great on my future resume as well as my application to law school, but with subject of the paper being such a sensitive issue I can not decide if the ends justify the means. It seems to me that this has a powder keg potential. SORRY SO LONG... :-\
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not publishing, the man wins…tough spot though for sure. Good question.
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I am going to write this as though I were advising myself in your situation. This is your career/life and what I have to say is too forceful to be addressed at a sovereign individual making this important a choice.
I don't think that criticism of PATRIOT has ever been out of vogue or career-threatening unless you work in intelligence or law enforcement circles. If good men don't stand up for what they believe in and against what they don't, they are accessories to evil. Protecting the Constitution IMO is critical. We are becoming a police state and we need people like you to help stem the flow of our liberties into the shitter.
So my advice is: publish because it's your civic duty. Damn the torpedoes, freedom supersedes all.
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Thank you for all the input guys, it will certainly be processed in my consideration. Furthermore, nearly everything you have stated has affirmed my own beliefs. My worry is just do I need to play the game and keep my statements to myself until Im in a position to not have to worry about my education being cut short prematurely.
On the flipside, and this deeply saddens me, I find it tragic that I even had to ask for outsiders advice on this in a country who's independence was so deeply rooted in protecting the liberty of free speech, and certainly affirms the comment MCL made about where things have been heading unfortunately.
With respect to the forum, I will stop before this gets overly political; however, my sincerest gratitude to all who replied.
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Publish.
You're over thinking this. Your position is largely irrelevant unless you're planning a political career. The fact that you wrote something good enough as an undergrad to be included in a textbook is the important thing.
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I agree with Chris. Getting published is a great thing at your current point. A little off topic, but have you looked into the Truman Scholarship? It's very supportive of people who take belief stands and I know a handful of non-trads that have won it. I don't know what year you are, but it opens tons of doors and is a big cash award. Law school is a big plus, they just push you towards public service. If you have any questions or want some more info, PM me.
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I'd also say that law schools are unlikely to be put off by an anti-PATRIOT Act stance. It's not well written law, which even most proponents will concede.
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Publish.
You're over thinking this. Your position is largely irrelevant unless you're planning a political career. The fact that you wrote something good enough as an undergrad to be included in a textbook is the important thing.
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