Author: Susan Denker <[log in to unmask]> Date: 12/12/94 9:55 PM [Editor's note: This message was submitted to SCREEN-L by the "Author" noted above, and not by Jeremy Butler ([log in to unmask]).] Some reactions to Mr. Jarvik's posting: > I must protest the posting of this petition regarding prop. 187. It has > nothing whatsoever to do with the scholarly study of film and television, > rather is a partisan political initiative. A rather large proportion of the subscribers to this list are students or educators. The subject of Prop 187 has everything to do with our profession. I found it helpful to learn of the existence of the petition and I endorse Jeremy's decision to post it. (Even though I am not a member of the MLA.) > Signing such a petition, I am sure, will discredit the reputation of any film > or television scholar who is foolish enough to participate, since it would > reveal a lack of prudence. I'm sure you don't mean to imply that the signing of political petitions in general discredit the reputation of a scholar. In Europe, the political opinions of artists, filmmakers, and scholars are considered vital to public discourse on political matters. This tradition has some standing in America. We even elect filmstars to high public office, and entrust them with national policy-making. > putative intellectual justification Hmm. Is this necessary? One of the positive traits about scholarly discourse is that you can make your points without verbal bullying. Sincerely, Susan Denker