Oct. 15, 1999

Giuliani's Censorship Idealistic, Insular

To the editors:

It is unfortunate that Bolek Kabala sides with New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani in "The Brooklyn Stink" (Opinion, Oct. 15). Kabala's and Giuliani's viewpoint that publicly funded art should not offend anyone's religious affiliation is both idealistic and insular.

True progress is made when only ideas and beliefs are challenged. However, both Giuliani and Kabala seem to feel that the subject of religion is somehow sacred and should forever remain unchallenged. Maybe it is because they are scared of what they might discover. Is it not possible that by viewing the offending "Sensation" exhibit, visitors might be able to enhance their understanding of their religion? That by viewing the art, which is so personally offensive, one might be able to better understand or even challenge their personal and religious beliefs? It is unfortunate that Giuliani and Kabala are willing to take the risk.

By continually attempting to limit the boundaries of what is publicly "acceptable," America has and will continue to lag behind its European counterpart's social progress. Now nearly two years after its premier in London, "Sensation" has been deemed by the British press as yesterday's news, unrepresentative of today's British art world. However, while the both the culture and the art world of Europe have moved on, America is one again held back by its constant desire not to offend.

Nicholas B. Hobbs '02