Masters Theses

Date of Award

12-1997

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Communication

Major Professor

Dwight L. Teeter

Committee Members

Dorothy Bowles, Kit Rushing

Abstract

Attorneys and newspaper journalists, through the practice of their professions, have been perceived historically to share similar beliefs concerning free expression and freedom of the press. This research first examined the self-described views of Tennessee attorneys and newspaper journalists on free expression and the freedom of the press. It also surveyed their use of personal computers and the Internet. Two hundred and thirteen attorneys and newspaper journalists from the state of Tennessee participated in a mail survey over a six-week period. Their responses form a baseline for discussion on free expression, freedom of the press and personal computer use by attorneys and newspaper journalists as the 21st century approaches. With a response rate of 34.7 percent, the study found that attorneys and newspaper journalists were highly supportive of free expression. Aside from mutual indecision on the right to take up and bear arms, however, attorneys’ opinions consistently gave more credence to the importance of issues concerning the Bill of Rights and the First Amendment. Both groups demonstrated working knowledge about personal computers but regarded the Internet more as a medium for sending and receiving electronic mail than a means for enhancing their personal and professional lives.

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