Murfreesboro, TN - In a time when debates over speech and censorship echo from college campuses to social media platforms, Dr. Larry Burriss of Middle Tennessee State University offers a timely reminder: the conversation about what “ought” or “ought not” be said is far more complex than many realize Click PLAY above this article to hear the latest media commentary from Dr. Larry Burriss.

A fixture in Murfreesboro’s academic and civic life, Dr. Burriss has spent decades teaching journalism and media law, guiding students through the murky waters of ethics, regulation, and constitutional freedoms. His commentary, rooted in both scholarly rigor and lived experience—including military service and leadership at MTSU—often brings national issues into sharp local focus.

“Saying someone ought or ought not do something implies there are sanctions,” Burriss notes. “But what kind of sanctions are we talking about? Are we keeping viewpoints off the Internet? Denying speakers access to campuses? Cutting off airtime?”

His concern isn’t just theoretical. Burriss warns that simply listing what shouldn’t be said or done is not a solution. “It’s counterproductive,” he says. “What do you propose to actually do about it?”

He leaves us with two pointed questions: “Who guards the guardians? And what will you do when the other side comes for you?”

In Murfreesboro, where community values and academic freedom often intersect, Burriss’s words serve as both caution and call to action. As local institutions and residents navigate the balance between civility and free expression, his voice remains one of clarity, urging thoughtful engagement over reactionary control.

• Hear more from Dr. Larry Burris by checking out his entire list commentary files HERE. 

About Dr. Burriss - Dr. Larry Burriss is a highly accomplished professor of journalism with extensive experience in both academia and professional media. He teaches introductory journalism courses, media law, and quantitative research methods at the graduate level.

His academic credentials are impressive, holding five degrees:

• B.A. in Broadcast Journalism – The Ohio State University

• M.A. in Journalism – The Ohio State University

• M.A. in Human Relations – University of Oklahoma

• Ph.D. in Journalism – Ohio University

• J.D. – Concord Law School

Dr. Burriss has a distinguished career in print and broadcast news, public relations, and academic research. He has published extensively in both scholarly and popular publications, covering topics such as presidential press conferences, NASA photography, radio news, adolescent social media use, legal research, and even studies on Middle Earth.

In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Burriss has held numerous leadership roles, including director of the School of Journalism, dean of the College of Mass Communication, and president of the MTSU Faculty Senate. His contributions to the state include being appointed by Governor Phil Bredesen to serve on the Tennessee Board of Regents.

A decorated professional, Dr. Burriss has won first place in the Tennessee Associated Press Radio Contest nine times. He also has a distinguished military background, serving as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force. His active-duty service included deployments to Mali, Somalia, Bosnia, Central America, Europe, and the Pentagon.

Dr. Burriss continues to inspire students and colleagues with his vast knowledge, experience, and dedication to the field of journalism and media studies.