Analyzes two recent controversies about censorship of arts: Robert Mapplethorpe's photographs and U.S. congressional limits on funding for National Endowment for the Arts. Maintains artistic freedom can be encouraged if all segments of society learn about arts. Recommends that aesthetic education deal with these controversial issues, the social…

Posits that educational controversies are, in the long run, necessary to the enlightenment of American culture. Traces some representative events in the history of educational controversy; suggests some ways for educators to achieve equal footing with those who critize them. (CSS)