This document discusses the issues surrounding donations to libraries and freedom of expression. It notes that while freedom of expression is an important principle for libraries, they also have limited resources and must make selection decisions about donations. The document examines a specific case where the Church of Scientology argued that library rejections of its book donations violated its freedom of expression. While some librarians reject Scientology materials due to views of the organization, others argue donations should be considered based on objective criteria rather than personal views to uphold principles of freedom of expression.
Portrayals of religious activism and politicisation on British televisionrad6380
This document outlines a study on the portrayal of religious activism and politicization in British television. It discusses how such portrayals contribute to a sense of "moral panic" about the role of certain faiths in public life, especially Islam and Christianity. It analyzes how programs use terminology, imagery, and narratives to present religiously-motivated groups as a threat to mainstream British values through their influence on issues like abortion, LGBTQ rights, and women's rights. The document considers how these portrayals frame such groups as abnormal and otherize them from mainstream British identity and culture.
This document discusses the history and definitions of racism. It examines how racism was established through events like the Age of Discovery, sanctioned by the Catholic Church through Papal Bulls. This led to the Doctrine of Discovery and laws that justified invading and enslaving indigenous peoples. The impact of these laws and historical trauma can still be seen today in indigenous communities through health, education and employment deficits. The document analyzes how racism operates in societies through conflict theory, structural functionalism and symbolic interactionism. It provides examples of racism in New Zealand and discusses underlying themes like dehumanization and the denial of humanity.
Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to read and raises awareness about censorship efforts. It has been observed annually since 1982 during the last week of September. In recent years, the most common reasons cited for challenging books have been sexually explicit content, offensive language, and issues deemed inappropriate for certain age groups. Some of the most frequently challenged books and authors over time have included works by Judy Blume, Robert Cormier, J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, and Toni Morrison. The event reminds the public not to take democratic freedoms like access to information and diverse viewpoints for granted.
This document summarizes discussions from several library technology and publishing events. It covers topics like core vs non-core scholarly practices, re-engineering the organization of content, discovery layers for finding materials across local and external sources, and the ALA Midwinter Meeting discussion on the future of the organization.
Magnuson, M. L. (April, 2009). IFACTION Listserv: A View into Intellectual Freedom Issues in Modern Librarianship. Poster presented at the SIOS Student Research Poster Day, “Diversity and Excellence” Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Al oif choose_privacyweek_webinar_2011alapubishing
This free 90 minute webinar (aired March 31, 2011) features a panel of expert speakers on "hot topics" in privacy today, plus practical guidance and resources for libraries to develop programming that engages the community on these issues. Brought to you by American Libraries and ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom.
The document discusses the concept of intellectual freedom and the role of libraries in promoting it. It defines intellectual freedom as the free flow of information and ideas for present and future generations. It notes that libraries assert their right to keep materials on all sides of issues not prohibited by law. The document also discusses challenges like book bans and how libraries balance personal beliefs with serving diverse communities.
Portrayals of religious activism and politicisation on British televisionrad6380
This document outlines a study on the portrayal of religious activism and politicization in British television. It discusses how such portrayals contribute to a sense of "moral panic" about the role of certain faiths in public life, especially Islam and Christianity. It analyzes how programs use terminology, imagery, and narratives to present religiously-motivated groups as a threat to mainstream British values through their influence on issues like abortion, LGBTQ rights, and women's rights. The document considers how these portrayals frame such groups as abnormal and otherize them from mainstream British identity and culture.
This document discusses the history and definitions of racism. It examines how racism was established through events like the Age of Discovery, sanctioned by the Catholic Church through Papal Bulls. This led to the Doctrine of Discovery and laws that justified invading and enslaving indigenous peoples. The impact of these laws and historical trauma can still be seen today in indigenous communities through health, education and employment deficits. The document analyzes how racism operates in societies through conflict theory, structural functionalism and symbolic interactionism. It provides examples of racism in New Zealand and discusses underlying themes like dehumanization and the denial of humanity.
Banned Books Week celebrates the freedom to read and raises awareness about censorship efforts. It has been observed annually since 1982 during the last week of September. In recent years, the most common reasons cited for challenging books have been sexually explicit content, offensive language, and issues deemed inappropriate for certain age groups. Some of the most frequently challenged books and authors over time have included works by Judy Blume, Robert Cormier, J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, and Toni Morrison. The event reminds the public not to take democratic freedoms like access to information and diverse viewpoints for granted.
This document summarizes discussions from several library technology and publishing events. It covers topics like core vs non-core scholarly practices, re-engineering the organization of content, discovery layers for finding materials across local and external sources, and the ALA Midwinter Meeting discussion on the future of the organization.
Magnuson, M. L. (April, 2009). IFACTION Listserv: A View into Intellectual Freedom Issues in Modern Librarianship. Poster presented at the SIOS Student Research Poster Day, “Diversity and Excellence” Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Al oif choose_privacyweek_webinar_2011alapubishing
This free 90 minute webinar (aired March 31, 2011) features a panel of expert speakers on "hot topics" in privacy today, plus practical guidance and resources for libraries to develop programming that engages the community on these issues. Brought to you by American Libraries and ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom.
The document discusses the concept of intellectual freedom and the role of libraries in promoting it. It defines intellectual freedom as the free flow of information and ideas for present and future generations. It notes that libraries assert their right to keep materials on all sides of issues not prohibited by law. The document also discusses challenges like book bans and how libraries balance personal beliefs with serving diverse communities.
British Media Reporting in response to the British government's Counter-Extre...Carys Moseley
This document summarizes a conference presentation about British media reporting on the British government's Counter-Extremism Strategy (CES). It discusses definitions of extremism in the CES and British values related to religion. It analyzes the narrative around how British values came to be. It also summarizes the topics covered and not covered in British media reporting on the CES, responses to the CES from religious bodies, origins of counter-extremism in policy and definitions of religious extremism in international documents and legislation. It considers whether the CES represents a "new Clarendon Code" or an enlightened approach and questions why the British media has not analyzed the CES in more depth.
This PowerPoint presentation on secularism discusses key concepts, including:
- Secularism separates government and religious institutions and ensures equal treatment of all religions by the state.
- It protects freedom of religious belief and practice for all citizens while ensuring public services and schools remain neutral.
- In India, secularism means equal treatment of all religions by the state, though personal laws vary by religion, which is controversial.
This document discusses the history and present state of religious freedom in American politics. It covers:
- The historical origins of religious freedom in figures like Mary Dyer, Roger Williams, and William Penn who advocated for separation of church and state.
- Key legal developments like the 1st Amendment, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and international declarations.
- Current controversies around issues like the Affordable Care Act, same-sex marriage, and claims of religiously-motivated violence.
- A hopeful perspective that American history shows religions can promote both spiritual peace and social justice, and current debates indicate a turn toward greater religious empathy and understanding of minority experiences.
This powerpoint presentation defines secularism as the separation of government and religious institutions to ensure equal treatment of people of all religions. It discusses how secularism protects freedom of religion and expression while ensuring religious beliefs do not interfere with democratic laws and institutions. Secularism is practiced differently in various countries, with India described as having a controversial form that respects religious personal laws but is criticized for allowing discrimination. Several international organizations are also listed that promote secular and humanist views.
This document outlines how British television, particularly documentary and current affairs programs, portrays religiously motivated activism and politics. It discusses how this coverage contributes to a sense of "moral panic" about the role of certain faiths, especially Islam and Christianity, in public life. The document analyzes examples from programs to show how religious groups are othered and portrayed as threats through their depiction as abnormal, politically dangerous, and exploitative of vulnerable groups. It concludes that these representations align certain types of religious politicization with fundamentalism in a way that creates new moral panics.
The document discusses issues of racism, poverty, and freedom of speech in Australia and other countries. It notes that while issues still exist, Australia has stronger legal protections against racism through acts like the Racial Discrimination Act. It also discusses what organizations like the Catholic Church and the United Nations have done to promote and protect human rights internationally. At a local level, the school described addresses issues through fundraising, promoting respect, and not tolerating discrimination. Individuals are encouraged to speak up against injustice and support humanitarian causes.
This document discusses concepts related to race, ethnicity, and migration. It begins by outlining key terms like race, ethnicity, and minority groups. It notes that race is a social construct rather than a biological one. The document then examines theories of racism, including ethnocentrism, group closure, and resource allocation. It also discusses models of ethnic integration such as assimilation, melting pot, and cultural pluralism. The document considers debates around multiculturalism and issues like cultural diversity versus solidarity. It concludes by reflecting on concepts like "us and them" as well as ethnicity and inequality.
This document discusses censorship and freedom of expression in the United States. It provides background on the first amendment which guarantees free speech. It then explores the definition and history of censorship, including its use by governments and religious groups to control information and ideas. The document also examines key Supreme Court cases that have helped define what can be censored as obscene in the US, such as the 1973 Miller test. It notes censorship continues to be debated in regards to media and the internet.
The International Civil Liberties Alliance (ICLA) aims to uphold democracy, freedom, and individual liberties. ICLA's main focus is opposing sharia law when it undermines freedoms and human rights. ICLA promotes key issues such as freedom of expression, democracy and the rule of law, freedom of worship, equal rights for women, and equality before the law. ICLA supports international cooperation to protect individual liberties globally.
This presentation discussed Religion and Libraries as well as intellectual freedom. We also get into the label debate a bit. The ALA Library Bill of Rights is discussed in detail.
The International Civil Liberties Alliance (ICLA) aims to uphold democracy, freedom, and individual liberties. ICLA's main focus is opposing sharia law when it undermines freedoms and human rights. ICLA works on 10 key issues including freedom of expression, democracy and rule of law, freedom of worship, equal rights for women, and international cooperation for the protection of liberty.
The Association of Atheism in Turkey is the first legally recognized atheist organization in Turkey and the Middle East. It aims to promote a positive image of atheism and protect the rights of non-believers. The document outlines challenges facing atheists in Turkey, including censorship, criminalization, and discrimination in education. Laws against insulting religion have been used to prosecute atheists but not Muslims who criticize atheism. The Association seeks legal and social reforms to guarantee freedom of belief and equal treatment under the law for all citizens regardless of religious or non-religious views.
The document discusses human rights and Islam. It begins by defining human rights and categorizing them into three generations: civil and political rights, economic and social rights, and collective rights. It then discusses the universality and cultural relativism perspectives on human rights. The document outlines some basic human rights in Islam, as well as rights of citizens and enemies at war. It compares international versus Islamic views on human rights and discusses Malaysian opinions on LGBT rights, which are controversial and illegal in the country.
Cultural liberalism can be understood as "to march to the beat of a different drummer" according to Henry David Thoreau. This means acting independently without being constrained by social norms or rules. Cultural liberalism advocates respect for individual and cultural differences backed by democratic laws and human rights that protect things like freedom of expression, religion, marriage, and the press. It sees individuals as equal with rights rather than being defined by social groups.
Religion on Europe has a long and complicated history. Read here to find out some of the main events that played a huge factor in how our worlds history was shaped.
Delphian School is an independent, coeducational day and boarding school located in Sheridan, Oregon open to students from around the world. We offer a rigorous academic independent-study program, with a strong emphasis on practical learning, for primary through high school students. Delphian also offers a highly regarded English-as-a-Second-Language program and boasts a diverse, international student body representing over eighteen countries.
International human rights law has evolved significantly since the United Nations Charter first established protecting human rights as a goal. Three key developments include:
1) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights established civil/political and economic/social/cultural rights but is non-binding.
2) The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights made several rights legally binding and created monitoring mechanisms like the Human Rights Committee.
3) Other treaties like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women have further expanded protections, though some states have lodged reservations, particularly around provisions in conflict with interpretations of Sharia law.
The document defines human rights as universal legal guarantees that protect individuals and groups against actions that interfere with fundamental freedoms, entitlements, and human dignity. It obliges governments and other duty-bearers to respect certain things and refrain from others. Core principles of human rights outlined are that they are universal, inalienable, indivisible, interrelated, based on non-discrimination, and focus on empowerment and accountability. Rights can only be restricted under specific criteria and any restriction must respect human dignity. The document introduces international human rights law and the UN human rights system, including political bodies, treaty monitoring, and independent experts.
This document discusses various theories related to popular culture, including:
- Gender theories which examine stereotypes and exploitation in media.
- Marxism and cultural hegemony theories which analyze how economic classes influence culture.
- Cultural liberalism and pluralism which advocate for individual freedom and respect for diversity.
- Theories of mass society, cultural industry, and globalization which examine the industrialization and spread of culture through media and technology.
- Interactionism looks at how people interact and influence each other to create shared meanings and culture.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
Save your marriage from divorce & make your relationship stronger using anti divorce spells to make him or her fall back in love with you. End your marriage if you are no longer in love with your husband or wife. Permanently end your marriage using divorce spells that work fast. Protect your marriage from divorce using love spells to boost commitment, love & bind your hearts together for a stronger marriage that will last. Get your ex lover who has remarried using divorce spells to break up a couple & make your ex lost lover come back to you permanently.
Visit https://www.profbalaj.com/love-spells-loves-spells-that-work/
Call/WhatsApp +27836633417 for more info.
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
British Media Reporting in response to the British government's Counter-Extre...Carys Moseley
This document summarizes a conference presentation about British media reporting on the British government's Counter-Extremism Strategy (CES). It discusses definitions of extremism in the CES and British values related to religion. It analyzes the narrative around how British values came to be. It also summarizes the topics covered and not covered in British media reporting on the CES, responses to the CES from religious bodies, origins of counter-extremism in policy and definitions of religious extremism in international documents and legislation. It considers whether the CES represents a "new Clarendon Code" or an enlightened approach and questions why the British media has not analyzed the CES in more depth.
This PowerPoint presentation on secularism discusses key concepts, including:
- Secularism separates government and religious institutions and ensures equal treatment of all religions by the state.
- It protects freedom of religious belief and practice for all citizens while ensuring public services and schools remain neutral.
- In India, secularism means equal treatment of all religions by the state, though personal laws vary by religion, which is controversial.
This document discusses the history and present state of religious freedom in American politics. It covers:
- The historical origins of religious freedom in figures like Mary Dyer, Roger Williams, and William Penn who advocated for separation of church and state.
- Key legal developments like the 1st Amendment, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and international declarations.
- Current controversies around issues like the Affordable Care Act, same-sex marriage, and claims of religiously-motivated violence.
- A hopeful perspective that American history shows religions can promote both spiritual peace and social justice, and current debates indicate a turn toward greater religious empathy and understanding of minority experiences.
This powerpoint presentation defines secularism as the separation of government and religious institutions to ensure equal treatment of people of all religions. It discusses how secularism protects freedom of religion and expression while ensuring religious beliefs do not interfere with democratic laws and institutions. Secularism is practiced differently in various countries, with India described as having a controversial form that respects religious personal laws but is criticized for allowing discrimination. Several international organizations are also listed that promote secular and humanist views.
This document outlines how British television, particularly documentary and current affairs programs, portrays religiously motivated activism and politics. It discusses how this coverage contributes to a sense of "moral panic" about the role of certain faiths, especially Islam and Christianity, in public life. The document analyzes examples from programs to show how religious groups are othered and portrayed as threats through their depiction as abnormal, politically dangerous, and exploitative of vulnerable groups. It concludes that these representations align certain types of religious politicization with fundamentalism in a way that creates new moral panics.
The document discusses issues of racism, poverty, and freedom of speech in Australia and other countries. It notes that while issues still exist, Australia has stronger legal protections against racism through acts like the Racial Discrimination Act. It also discusses what organizations like the Catholic Church and the United Nations have done to promote and protect human rights internationally. At a local level, the school described addresses issues through fundraising, promoting respect, and not tolerating discrimination. Individuals are encouraged to speak up against injustice and support humanitarian causes.
This document discusses concepts related to race, ethnicity, and migration. It begins by outlining key terms like race, ethnicity, and minority groups. It notes that race is a social construct rather than a biological one. The document then examines theories of racism, including ethnocentrism, group closure, and resource allocation. It also discusses models of ethnic integration such as assimilation, melting pot, and cultural pluralism. The document considers debates around multiculturalism and issues like cultural diversity versus solidarity. It concludes by reflecting on concepts like "us and them" as well as ethnicity and inequality.
This document discusses censorship and freedom of expression in the United States. It provides background on the first amendment which guarantees free speech. It then explores the definition and history of censorship, including its use by governments and religious groups to control information and ideas. The document also examines key Supreme Court cases that have helped define what can be censored as obscene in the US, such as the 1973 Miller test. It notes censorship continues to be debated in regards to media and the internet.
The International Civil Liberties Alliance (ICLA) aims to uphold democracy, freedom, and individual liberties. ICLA's main focus is opposing sharia law when it undermines freedoms and human rights. ICLA promotes key issues such as freedom of expression, democracy and the rule of law, freedom of worship, equal rights for women, and equality before the law. ICLA supports international cooperation to protect individual liberties globally.
This presentation discussed Religion and Libraries as well as intellectual freedom. We also get into the label debate a bit. The ALA Library Bill of Rights is discussed in detail.
The International Civil Liberties Alliance (ICLA) aims to uphold democracy, freedom, and individual liberties. ICLA's main focus is opposing sharia law when it undermines freedoms and human rights. ICLA works on 10 key issues including freedom of expression, democracy and rule of law, freedom of worship, equal rights for women, and international cooperation for the protection of liberty.
The Association of Atheism in Turkey is the first legally recognized atheist organization in Turkey and the Middle East. It aims to promote a positive image of atheism and protect the rights of non-believers. The document outlines challenges facing atheists in Turkey, including censorship, criminalization, and discrimination in education. Laws against insulting religion have been used to prosecute atheists but not Muslims who criticize atheism. The Association seeks legal and social reforms to guarantee freedom of belief and equal treatment under the law for all citizens regardless of religious or non-religious views.
The document discusses human rights and Islam. It begins by defining human rights and categorizing them into three generations: civil and political rights, economic and social rights, and collective rights. It then discusses the universality and cultural relativism perspectives on human rights. The document outlines some basic human rights in Islam, as well as rights of citizens and enemies at war. It compares international versus Islamic views on human rights and discusses Malaysian opinions on LGBT rights, which are controversial and illegal in the country.
Cultural liberalism can be understood as "to march to the beat of a different drummer" according to Henry David Thoreau. This means acting independently without being constrained by social norms or rules. Cultural liberalism advocates respect for individual and cultural differences backed by democratic laws and human rights that protect things like freedom of expression, religion, marriage, and the press. It sees individuals as equal with rights rather than being defined by social groups.
Religion on Europe has a long and complicated history. Read here to find out some of the main events that played a huge factor in how our worlds history was shaped.
Delphian School is an independent, coeducational day and boarding school located in Sheridan, Oregon open to students from around the world. We offer a rigorous academic independent-study program, with a strong emphasis on practical learning, for primary through high school students. Delphian also offers a highly regarded English-as-a-Second-Language program and boasts a diverse, international student body representing over eighteen countries.
International human rights law has evolved significantly since the United Nations Charter first established protecting human rights as a goal. Three key developments include:
1) The Universal Declaration of Human Rights established civil/political and economic/social/cultural rights but is non-binding.
2) The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights made several rights legally binding and created monitoring mechanisms like the Human Rights Committee.
3) Other treaties like the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women have further expanded protections, though some states have lodged reservations, particularly around provisions in conflict with interpretations of Sharia law.
The document defines human rights as universal legal guarantees that protect individuals and groups against actions that interfere with fundamental freedoms, entitlements, and human dignity. It obliges governments and other duty-bearers to respect certain things and refrain from others. Core principles of human rights outlined are that they are universal, inalienable, indivisible, interrelated, based on non-discrimination, and focus on empowerment and accountability. Rights can only be restricted under specific criteria and any restriction must respect human dignity. The document introduces international human rights law and the UN human rights system, including political bodies, treaty monitoring, and independent experts.
This document discusses various theories related to popular culture, including:
- Gender theories which examine stereotypes and exploitation in media.
- Marxism and cultural hegemony theories which analyze how economic classes influence culture.
- Cultural liberalism and pluralism which advocate for individual freedom and respect for diversity.
- Theories of mass society, cultural industry, and globalization which examine the industrialization and spread of culture through media and technology.
- Interactionism looks at how people interact and influence each other to create shared meanings and culture.
The forces involved in this witchcraft spell will re-establish the loving bond between you and help to build a strong, loving relationship from which to start anew. Despite any previous hardships or problems, the spell work will re-establish the strong bonds of friendship and love upon which the marriage and relationship originated. Have faith, these stop divorce and stop separation spells are extremely powerful and will reconnect you and your partner in a strong and harmonious relationship.
My ritual will not only stop separation and divorce, but rebuild a strong bond between you and your partner that is based on truth, honesty, and unconditional love. For an even stronger effect, you may want to consider using the Eternal Love Bond spell to ensure your relationship and love will last through all tests of time. If you have not yet determined if your partner is considering separation or divorce, but are aware of rifts in the relationship, try the Love Spells to remove problems in a relationship or marriage. Keep in mind that all my love spells are 100% customized and that you'll only need 1 spell to address all problems/wishes.
Save your marriage from divorce & make your relationship stronger using anti divorce spells to make him or her fall back in love with you. End your marriage if you are no longer in love with your husband or wife. Permanently end your marriage using divorce spells that work fast. Protect your marriage from divorce using love spells to boost commitment, love & bind your hearts together for a stronger marriage that will last. Get your ex lover who has remarried using divorce spells to break up a couple & make your ex lost lover come back to you permanently.
Visit https://www.profbalaj.com/love-spells-loves-spells-that-work/
Call/WhatsApp +27836633417 for more info.
The Enchantment and Shadows_ Unveiling the Mysteries of Magic and Black Magic...Phoenix O
This manual will guide you through basic skills and tasks to help you get started with various aspects of Magic. Each section is designed to be easy to follow, with step-by-step instructions.
A375 Example Taste the taste of the Lord, the taste of the Lord The taste of...franktsao4
It seems that current missionary work requires spending a lot of money, preparing a lot of materials, and traveling to far away places, so that it feels like missionary work. But what was the result they brought back? It's just a lot of photos of activities, fun eating, drinking and some playing games. And then we have to do the same thing next year, never ending. The church once mentioned that a certain missionary would go to the field where she used to work before the end of his life. It seemed that if she had not gone, no one would be willing to go. The reason why these missionary work is so difficult is that no one obeys God’s words, and the Bible is not the main content during missionary work, because in the eyes of those who do not obey God’s words, the Bible is just words and cannot be connected with life, so Reading out God's words is boring because it doesn't have any life experience, so it cannot be connected with human life. I will give a few examples in the hope that this situation can be changed. A375
Heartfulness Magazine - June 2024 (Volume 9, Issue 6)heartfulness
Dear readers,
This month we continue with more inspiring talks from the Global Spirituality Mahotsav that was held from March 14 to 17, 2024, at Kanha Shanti Vanam.
We hear from Daaji on lifestyle and yoga in honor of International Day of Yoga, June 21, 2024. We also hear from Professor Bhavani Rao, Dean at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University, on spirituality in action, the Venerable BhikkuSanghasena on how to be an ambassador for compassion, Dr. Tony Nader on the Maharishi Effect, Swami Mukundananda on the crossroads of modernization, Tejinder Kaur Basra on the purpose of work, the Venerable GesheDorjiDamdul on the psychology of peace, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, on how we are all related, and world-renowned violinist KumareshRajagopalan on the uplifting mysteries of music.
Dr. Prasad Veluthanar shares an Ayurvedic perspective on treating autism, Dr. IchakAdizes helps us navigate disagreements at work, Sravan Banda celebrates World Environment Day by sharing some tips on land restoration, and Sara Bubber tells our children another inspiring story and challenges them with some fun facts and riddles.
Happy reading,
The editors
A Free eBook ~ Valuable LIFE Lessons to Learn ( 5 Sets of Presentations)...OH TEIK BIN
A free eBook comprising 5 sets of PowerPoint presentations of meaningful stories /Inspirational pieces that teach important Dhamma/Life lessons. For reflection and practice to develop the mind to grow in love, compassion and wisdom. The texts are in English and Chinese.
My other free eBooks can be obtained from the following Links:
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/presentations
https://www.slideshare.net/ohteikbin/documents
Sanatan Vastu | Experience Great Living | Vastu ExpertSanatan Vastu
Santan Vastu Provides Vedic astrology courses & Vastu remedies, If you are searching Vastu for home, Vastu for kitchen, Vastu for house, Vastu for Office & Factory. Best Vastu in Bahadurgarh. Best Vastu in Delhi NCR
The Book of Ruth is included in the third division, or the Writings, of the Hebrew Bible. In most Christian canons it is treated as one of the historical books and placed between Judges and 1 Samuel.
Protector & Destroyer: Agni Dev (The Hindu God of Fire)Exotic India
So let us turn the pages of ancient Indian literature and get to know more about Agni, the mighty purifier of all things, worshipped in Indian culture as a God since the Vedic time.
Trusting God's Providence | Verse: Romans 8: 28-31JL de Belen
Trusting God's Providence.
Providence - God’s active preservation and care over His creation. God is both the Creator and the Sustainer of all things Heb. 1:2-3; Col. 1:17
-God keep His promises.
-God’s general providence is toward all creation
- All things were made through Him
God’s special providence is toward His children.
We may suffer now, but joy can and will come
God can see what we cannot see
The Hope of Salvation - Jude 1:24-25 - MessageCole Hartman
Jude gives us hope at the end of a dark letter. In a dark world like today, we need the light of Christ to shine brighter and brighter. Jude shows us where to fix our focus so we can be filled with God's goodness and glory. Join us to explore this incredible passage.
The Book of Samuel is a book in the Hebrew Bible, found as two books in the Old Testament. The book is part of the Deuteronomistic history, a series of books that constitute a theological history of the Israelites and that aim to explain God's law for Israel under the guidance of the prophets.
2. Blasphemy and Defamation of
Religion Laws: A Challenge to
Freedom of Expression
Paul Sturges
Loughborough University, UK
University of Pretoria, South Africa
3. The Right to Freedom of Expression
• Freedom of Expression is widely accepted as a
universal Human Right.
• As such it is protected in Article 19 of the UN
Universal Declaration on Human Rights
• The right is a basis for
– Free and uncensored media and communications
– Information disseminating institutions such as
libraries
– Laws on access to information
– Effective democratic governance
• Protecting and strengthening Freedom of
Expression is the rationale for this presentation
4. The nature of religious objection to
Freedom of Expression
• For the purposes of this
presentation, religious objections are
defined as:
– Blasphemy (Insults to religion itself);
– Giving Offence (Perhaps through
blasphemy, but specifically with the intent to
inflict distress on believers);
– Incitement to hatred or violence (hate
speech).
• The so-called „Defamation of Religion‟
adds a fresh dimension to this.
5. Defining Blasphemy
• Dictionaries do not help very much
• In modern English usage it means:
– Cursing and swearing
• More relevant meanings refer to:
– Irreverent, sacrilegious, disrespectful, sinful,
wicked, evil talk
• These basically refer to denying the truth
of religion or insulting religion.
7. A blasphemy case
• On 4th Jan 2011 Pakistani politician Salman
Taseer was assassinated because he had
proposed amending the blasphemy law
• Taseer had defended a Christian woman Aasia
Bibi, who was sentenced to death for some
alleged minor insult to Islam
• The law is notorious because of its exploitation
in personal disputes and the possibility of a
death penalty.
• Taseer‟s assassin and supporters did not accuse
him of blasphemy, merely of seeking to amend
the law.
8. A withdrawal?
• March 2011, after the murder of Salman Taseer
on 4th Jan 2011, Pakistan submitted a new
resolution on discrimination the UNHRC without
the reference to Defamation of Religion.
• Taseer‟s martyrdom seems to have taught some
sort of lesson in
– Logic (religion does not have human rights)
– Humanity (Blasphemy and Defamation Laws can be
an incitement to violence).
• Pakistan‟s Blasphemy Laws remain in force and
other countries have such laws.
9. Blasphemy in Greece
• Section 7 of the Greek Penal Code „Offences
against religious peace‟ includes:
– Public and malicious blasphemy against God
– Blasphemy against the Greek Orthodox Church or any
other tolerated religion.
• There seems to be no record of cases under
Section 7 protecting other religions.
• The State does bring prosecutions protecting the
Orthodox Church.
10. Blasphemy in the UK
• In 2008 MPs voted to support the abolition
of blasphemy in an amendment to the
Criminal Justice and Immigration Bill.
• In May of that year this received Royal
Assent, condemning the laws to history.
• The laws only protected Christianity and
were widely regarded as discriminatory.
• They had fallen into disuse and were last
invoked in 1977.
11. Giving offence?
• Satirical content and performances that
challenge religion are often offensive to
believers
• Defenders of satire say that it is protected as
part of the human right of freedom of
expression
• They add that avoiding offence can lead to self
suppression of significant commentary
• Cartoons published in Denmark in 2005 proved
catastrophically offensive to Muslims
• (See Sturges, Limits to Freedom of
Expression?, Journal of
Documentation, 32, 2006)
12. Hate speech
• Disparages a person or a group on the basis of
some characteristic such as
race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexu
al orientation.
• Laws prohibit it in many countries because of
possible harmful consequences, but
• Some of these laws (eg in Poland) refer not only
to the consequences, but the offence that might
be caused to the people targeted.
13. Defamation of Religion
• Resolutions on respect for religion and against
defamation of religion have been brought to UN
forums since 2002 generally on behalf of the
Organisation of the Islamic Conference
• “Defamation of religion is a serious affront to
human dignity leading to a restriction on the
freedom of their adherents and incitement to
religious violence” Statement by Pakistani
officials to the UN Human Rights Commission
supporting such a resolution in 2009.
• The non-binding resolution was passed (23
for, 11 against, 13 abstaining).
14. The problem with Defamation of
Religion
• Canada‟s representative to the UNHRC pointed
out that individuals have rights, not religions.
• Defamation of Religion seeks to outlaw:
– Blasphemy
– Because it gives offence, and
– Allegedly directs hatred and violence towards
adherents of religions.
• The three are connected, but in the way the
resolutions suggest?
15. Does Religion have Protection?
• The UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights
protects religious belief.
• Article 18 says: Everyone has the right to
freedom of thought, conscience and religion;
this right includes
– freedom to change his religion or belief, and
– freedom, either alone or in community with others
and in public or private, to manifest his religion or
belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance
• This is strong protection for believers, though
religion itself is not protected.
16. Conclusions
• Freedom of Expression is the essential ethical
underpinning of all forms of communication.
• Human Rights Declarations and Conventions
protect it, but religion is a disputable area
– Criticism of religion (even if offensive) is protected,
– Expression of hatred towards believers is not worthy
of protection.
• This line of argument leads into difficult areas
• It is not always popular but that does not make
it less valid.
17. Ethical Perspectives on
Donations to Libraries
Almuth Gastinger
Senior Research Librarian
Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Trondheim, Norway
OIF and IFLA FAIFE webinar
15th November 2011
18. Ethical approaches to librarianship
• Starting point: the right to Freedom of
Expression.
• This right provides a strong ethical basis for
librarianship.
• The right is generally taken to include
– Freedom of Opinion and
– Freedom of Access to Information.
• Examples of strong national statements of this
right:
– The First Amendment to the American Constitution
– The new Article 100 of the Norwegian Constitution
• This right is also accepted internationally.
19. Freedom of Expression
• Article 19 of The UN Universal Declaration on
Human Rights (1948) says „Everyone has the right
to Freedom of Expression‟.
• But limits to Freedom of Expression in European
Convention on Human Rights (1950) in Article 10:
– National security
– Prevention of disorder or crime
– Protection of health and morals
• Governments prefer to define limits broadly, but in
principle individuals or groups should have the
fullest possible freedom of expression and access.
20. Donations to libraries
• Donations are still part of collection development
but amount is decreasing (at least in academic
libraries).
• The ethical problem of donations to libraries:
– Libraries have few resources for handling of donations
and limited storage space for print materials, therefore
– Libraries must select.
– Selection implies sometimes rejecting material.
• Donations are a particular problem in developing
countries, where lack of funding brings the
temptation to accept everything.
21. Donations as Freedom of
Expression
• Some groups claim that they are denied freedom
of expression by governments and their
agencies (even when there are no laws
excluding them).
• The Church of Scientology makes this case in
relation to its donations to libraries.
• It alleges that libraries reject its donations and
are thus denying readers the chance to learn
about its beliefs.
• Are libraries actually infringing donors‟ freedom
of expression if their gifts are excluded?
22. The Scientology donations case
• New Era Publishing (Scientology‟s publisher) sends
out sets of up to 17 books by L.R. Hubbard to
libraries all over the world, arguing that this
reflects freedom of expression.
• Some librarians (mainly from Central European
countries) reject these, because they reflect the
views of an organisation seen as
dangerous, harmful and aggressive in
disseminating its books.
• Libraries in Germany and France (and probably
elsewhere) seem to have been throwing them
away, and saying that Scientology was under
surveillance or some kind of official ban.
23. Situation in Germany
• Libraries reject donations from Scientology, often
only arguing that they are not allowed by the
Federal Office for the Protection of the
Constitution (OPC), even if this office has stated
that Scientology does not behave
unconstitutionally.
• Thus German libraries violate their Code of
Ethics, adopted in 2007: “We choose information
resources exclusively according to objective criteria …
regardless of personal preferences and influences of
third parties”.
24. Rejecting donations from Scientology
• Some librarians are undoubtedly comfortable with
rejecting donations from unpopular organisations
without ethical based reasons.
• Librarians who support freedom of expression may
not find it so acceptable.
• Arguably, by rejecting donations from
organisations that librarians do not like, libraries
do frustrate freedom of expression.
• What is the ethical approach to this problem?
25. Policy on library
collection development (1)
• As suggested earlier, because of limited resources
libraries cannot accept and stock all donations.
• This means that they need a collection
development policy stating:
– Which subjects covered,
– How to achieve balance and fairness,
– How to deal with donations and how to communicate
with donors.
• The policy should be
– Drafted consultatively,
– Made available for inspection to users, donors, funders,
– Revised when appropriate.
26. Policy on library
collection development (2)
• Policy should tell in detail:
- Criteria for including donations in the collection
(subjects, quality of material etc),
- What will be done with unwanted donations (return to
donor, sale, disposal or others).
• A policy may not satisfy everyone, but it is the
only fair response to criticism from donors.
27. Summary and conclusion (1)
• Despite agreement on value of freedom of
expression this value often clashes with
librarians‟ moral principles and political beliefs, in
particular concerning donations from not
generally accepted religious groups and sects.
• The answer to this conflict must be a code of
ethics for librarians and a collection development
policy that includes a statement about
donations.
• Such a policy will have a clear ethical basis if
– it is openly stated and balanced and fair, and
– decisions are clearly made on the basis of that policy.
28. Summary and conclusion (2)
• Freedom of expression through library
donations and the right to donate does not
mean the right to have donations
accepted.
• But users should be able to find a diversity
of views represented in the library.
• Libraries and librarians must be
neutral, trusting their users to draw their
own conclusions from the material
available to them in the library.
29. Let Us Pray @ Your Library:
The First Amendment and
Public Library Meeting Rooms
Deborah Caldwell-Stone
Office for Intellectual Freedom
American Library Association
30. The U.S. Constitution and Religion
“Congress shall make no law respecting an
establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free
exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of
speech, or of the press; or the right of the
people peaceably to assemble, and to petition
the government for a redress of grievances.”
~~ Amendment I, U.S. Constitution
31. The U.S. Constitution and Religion
The Establishment Clause was adopted to prohibit
the federal government from declaring and
financially supporting a national religion.
Government actions or laws violate the Establishment
Clause if:
• they either have a predominantly religious
purpose, or
• they have the principal or primary effect of
advancing religion or inhibiting religion.
32. The U.S. Constitution and Religion
The Free Exercise Clause was adopted to prohibit the
federal government from adopting laws that
burden an individual's ability to exercise his or her
religious beliefs.
Government actions or laws violate the Free Exercise
Clause if:
• they burden an individual's ability to exercise
his or her religious beliefs, or
• they discriminate against persons or groups
holding particular religious beliefs
33. Ethical Principles
Library Bill of Rights
“Libraries that make exhibit spaces and meeting
rooms available to the public they serve should
make such facilities available on an equitable
basis, regardless of the beliefs or affiliations of
individuals or groups requesting their use.”
34. The Public Library and Religious Expression
Government agencies that open their facilities for
public use cannot exclude groups on the basis of
their religious character or because they may
engage in religious activities.
“Public libraries” – that is, libraries that are publicly
funded and operated by a government or
government agency – are bound by these legal
rules.
35. The Public Library and Religious Expression
– A public library may not engage in activities that have
a predominantly religious purpose.
– A public library is not obligated to provide access to its
meeting rooms, display cases, and other facilities.
– If a public library chooses to open its meeting rooms
and other facilities to public use, it cannot
disadvantage or exclude speakers or groups from using
their facilities solely because of their religious views or
the religious content of their speech.
36. Library Meeting Rooms and the Courts
Concerned Women for America, Inc. v. Lafayette County
(1989)
Pfeifer v. City of West Allis (2000)
Citizens for Community Values, Inc. v. Upper Arlington Public
Library (2008)
-- Each of these court opinions hold that public libraries cannot
not exclude religious groups from library meeting rooms on
the grounds that the groups might discuss religious topics or
engage in religious practices during the meeting.
37. Library Meeting Rooms and the Courts
Concern: Implied approval or endorsement of particular
religious beliefs and practices that will violate the
Establishment Clause.
Court decisions hold that a religious group's use of public
facilities like a library meeting room will not violate the
Establishment Clause if no one would think the library
endorses the religious group's message or activity.
38. Library Meeting Rooms and the Courts
BUT WAIT A MINUTE …
Faith Center Church Evangelistic Ministries v. Glover
(a.k.a. “The Contra Costa case”)
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the library's
policy excluding religious activity on the grounds that
the library had a legitimate interest in screening and
excluding meeting room activities that could interfere
with the library‟s primary mission; since the group had
advertised its event as a religious service, it could be
excluded.
What‟s going on here?
39. Library Meeting Rooms and the Courts
On closer examination:
The Ninth Circuit also held that the library could not prohibit
religious groups from engaging in religious activities other
than worship, like Bible instruction, praying, singing, sharing
testimony, and discussing political or social issues
The Ninth Circuit also warned that the library had to exercise
caution when trying to distinguish between ordinary religious
activities and a worship service. (The Contra Costa group
self-identified their activity as a “worship service.”)
40. Library Meeting Rooms and the Courts
The Ninth Circuit asked the trial court to determine
whether the library could apply its policy without
deciding whether a proposed use constituted "worship."
The trial court struck down the policy on the grounds that
the policy required library staff to determine whether a
proposed event constituted worship, thereby
impermissibly entangling the public library with religion.
41. Policy Guidelines
Meeting room policies should:
– Describe the facility with particularity and define
who is eligible to use the facility.
– Regulate the time, place, or manner of use without
reference to the content of a meeting or to the
beliefs or affiliations of the sponsors
– Avoid specific clauses addressing religious activities
or worship.
42. Policy Guidelines
Remember:
– No court has ever ruled that the Establishment Clause
requires libraries to prohibit meeting room use by religious
groups engaged in worship.
– If a library‟s meeting room policy requires staff to
determine when a group has crossed the line from a
"meeting" to a "worship service,“ that activity itself may
violate Establishment Clause.
– Non-discriminatory limits on scheduling, times of
use, amplification, and signage can help the library assure
that its facilities serve the entire community.
43. Alliance Defense Fund
Conservative Christian organization that is pursuing
a letter-writing campaign that targets libraries
whose meeting room policies restrict the use of
the library's meeting rooms for religious services.
ADF has filed multiple lawsuits against libraries that
refused meeting room space to religious speakers
and groups.
44. Alliance Defense Fund
If you receive a letter …
– Only communicate with ADF through legal counsel.
– Review and revise your meeting room policy with
neutral legal counsel and/or OIF assistance.
– Remember that ADF cannot sue libraries without
standing – that is, ADF or its representatives must have
been denied use of a meeting room on religious
grounds.