Friday, September 7, 2007

Don't forget the right to look stupid

Just graded the first quiz in my editing class. The bonus question asked students to name all five freedoms protected by the First Amendment. (In case you were wondering, the Associated Press Stylebook calls for capitalization of the amendments.) Out of 23 students, only three got all five. It's discouraging how many people can't name even four of these important rights. And it's really annoying how many people think that "the right to bare arms" is one of them. In case you were wondering, "the right to bear arms" is shorthand for the Second Amendment.

I guess everyone has the right to bare arms, as long as they're not really ugly arms. I mean, if they're really flabby or something, I certainly don't want to see them. Of course, it's up to the individual. If you feel good about your arms and want to show them off, no matter how disgusting they are, go for it. That's what's so great about this country.

So, do you know the five freedoms protected by the First Amendment? Go to the The First Amendment Center for the answer. And if you're curious about the other nine amendments in the Bill of Rights, check out the The Bill of Rights Institute.

If you're interested in learning more about the U.S. Constitution, the The National Archives Experience is a great resource.

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