Dissent and Disruption

The decade of the sixties is generally presented in film and television as the epitome of youthful idealism, yet it was a period scarred by tragedy: the assassinations of beloved national leaders, battles for civil rights, the war in Vietnam, and violent student protests. In Dissent and Disruption: A University Under Siege, Richard Siggelkow draws upon his experiences at the State University of New York at Buffalo to place student activism--and the 1960s--into perspective. The result of years of research, including over 250 interviews, Dissent and Disruption demonstrates the polarization of campus constituencies, pointing out that diverse opinions existed among students, faculty, and administrators alike. By focusing on student protest tactics and strategies as well as faculty and administrative responses, the author exposes many misconceptions about university unrest. He also examines the impact of student protests on local, state, and national politicians and the public. Threats to academic freedom, the influence of the news media, and the role played by law enforcement personnel are among the important issues highlighted in this dramatic tale.