civil liberties attitudes/focus group ref.
Clem Brooks
I'm in the midst of a study of trends in civil liberties attitudes and have
come across an intriguing finding relating to changes in patterns of (latent)
attitudinal structures: levels of constraint in attitudes that target the
civil liberties of gays/lesbians have dramatically _declined_ in recent
years, even though corresponding levels of constraint towards other target
groups have remained generally quite stable. The story becomes even more
interesting when considering that _marginal_ changes in civil liberties
attitudes show increasing tolerance at the aggregate level.
In this context, I'd be grafeful for any references to literatures on civil
rights for gays/lesbians. This literature would not have to be strictly survey-
based analyses; I'm equally interested in more policy-oriented work as well. My
impression, for instance, is the preceding results are consistent with some
activists who have argued that Americans' views of gays/lesbians shows a
decreasing level of intolerance but _not_ an extension of general civil libs.
beliefs. Please respond to me directly, and I'll compile a list of refs. to
post at a later date.
Also, a couple months ago, some references to focus group texts was posted.
If whomever did this posting could send the refs. again (but to my address
only so as to avoid cluttering up the network), I'd be very grateful.
Clem Brooks
Department of Sociology
M. Mark Miller
noting the same pattern you report: Thomas C. Wilson, "Trends in Tolerance
Toward Rightist and Leftist Groups ... "
I am also working in the area of public support for civil liberties, free
expression in particular. If anyone has recent references, last two or
three years, I'd appreciate them.
M. Mark Miller
Professor, Journalism
330 Communications Building
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN 37991-0330
Voice: 615/974-4452