Abstract
This article argues that censorship does exist in higher education, though its form and intensity vary across institutional types, missions, and community contexts. Drawing on examples from public and private colleges, the discussion distinguishes legal obligations for public universities, which are bound by First Amendment protections, from the broader discretionary authority of private institutions to restrict theatrical content. Illustrations from urban universities demonstrate the feasibility of staging productions involving nudity, explicit language, and controversial themes. The article contrasts this environment with more restrictive settings such as religious colleges, where administrative priorities and contractual employment terms limit faculty autonomy. Legal standards for obscenity are summarized to clarify the distinction between objectionable material and constitutionally protected artistic expression. The analysis emphasizes that faculty vulnerability increases in the absence of tenure and that administrative support is critical to sustaining controversial work. Practical guidance is provided for managing public reaction, including proactive communication with administrators and legal counsel, audience advisories, and responsive public relations practices. The article concludes that academic theatre carries a responsibility to present challenging material while exercising prudent judgment and fostering dialogue within institutional and community contexts.
Recommended Citation
Yowell, Bob
(1986)
"Does Censorship Exist on College and University Campuses?,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 56, Article 11.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol56/iss1/11
