Read the document "Brown University: Protest and Demonstration Guidelines." Why is obstructing the

exchange of ideas or the movement of people during protests prohibited by these guidelines? Be sure to:

include a precise and knowledgeable claim describing your position

use relevant and sufficient evidence to support your claim

provide a concluding statement that follows from and supports your claim

Protest is a necessary

I

A protest that obstructs the exchange of ideas or freedom of movement is defeating its own purpose. If it obstructs the exchange of ideas, it becomes "a form of censorship" because freedom of speech is an essential human right that nobody should be allowed to interfere with. In other words, even though I disagree with someone's opinion on a matter, I should never try to stop him or her from expressing that opinion.

Explanation:

Similarly, a protest that obstructs the freedom of movement is illegitimate because it forces its participants to act in a certain way. Everyone should be free to participate in a protest - or walk away if they don't agree with the demands. In a democratic society (or in this case, university), a protest is a legitimate tool for expressing a social or political stance. However, the moment protesters start using coercion or exerting force, they become the oppressors.