Al Goldstein
Al Goldstein: Prolific Publisher and Advocate for Free Speech
==============================================
Full Name and Common Aliases
-----------------------------
Alfred Lewis "Al" Goldstein was a renowned American publisher, editor, and advocate for free speech. He is best known as the founder of _Screw_ magazine, a provocative publication that pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in mainstream media.
Birth and Death Dates
----------------------
Goldstein was born on May 8, 1936, and passed away on June 19, 2013, at the age of 77.
Nationality and Profession(s)
-----------------------------
Goldstein held American nationality and worked as a publisher, editor, and writer throughout his career. He was also an outspoken advocate for free speech and a fierce critic of censorship.
Early Life and Background
-------------------------
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Goldstein grew up in a Jewish family and developed an early interest in writing and politics. He attended Brooklyn College and later served in the United States Army during the 1950s. After his military service, Goldstein began working as a writer and editor for various publications, including _The Village Voice_.
Major Accomplishments
----------------------
In 1968, Goldstein founded _Screw_ magazine, which quickly gained notoriety for its explicit content and unapologetic approach to sex and politics. The publication became a cultural phenomenon, attracting a large following and sparking controversy with its provocative editorial stance.
Goldstein's work on _Screw_ magazine earned him numerous awards and accolades, including the National Free Press Association Award for Outstanding Service in the Cause of Freedom of Expression. He was also a vocal advocate for First Amendment rights and frequently spoke out against censorship and government attempts to restrict free speech.
Notable Works or Actions
---------------------------
In addition to his work on _Screw_ magazine, Goldstein wrote several books, including _The Golden Age of Sex_, which detailed the history of sex in America. He also produced a number of documentaries and films exploring themes related to sex, politics, and free speech.
Goldstein's commitment to free expression was not limited to his own work; he also advocated for the rights of others to express themselves freely. In 1977, he led a successful campaign to repeal New York State's obscenity law, which had been used to censor numerous publications and artworks.
Impact and Legacy
--------------------
Al Goldstein's impact on American culture and society cannot be overstated. Through his work on _Screw_ magazine and beyond, he helped pave the way for greater freedom of expression in media and challenged the status quo with his unapologetic approach to sex and politics.
Goldstein's legacy extends far beyond his own publications; he inspired a generation of writers, artists, and activists who continue to push boundaries and challenge censorship. His commitment to free speech remains an essential part of American cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can express themselves freely without fear of reprisal or censorship.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
-----------------------------------------
Al Goldstein's contributions to the world of publishing, activism, and free expression have made him a widely quoted and remembered figure. His unapologetic approach to sex and politics continues to inspire controversy and debate, while his tireless advocacy for First Amendment rights has left an indelible mark on American culture.
Through his work on _Screw_ magazine and beyond, Goldstein demonstrated the power of free expression to challenge societal norms and push boundaries. His legacy serves as a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge and truth is essential to any functioning democracy, and that censorship and restriction of speech are among the greatest threats to human progress.
Quotes by Al Goldstein
I love going to the factories of La Plata, or Little Havana and seeing them roll cigars. I get excited. To me it is more beautiful than a topless club.
Philosophy is an attempt by man to find cause and effect. Religion has the same goal.
To date or not to date that is the question. It’s almost as important as Shakespeare’s to be or not to be which deals with death.
I’m a crusader. I really believe in the First Amendment, and I use it fully, and I pay a price for that.
Even though marriage is doomed, if you turned it into a job you like and really work at it – it can be salvaged.
I believe in me. I'm God. God is your need to believe in some super being. I am the super being. I am your God, admit it.
A self made man is a rarity and hated by the parasites that floated to fame thought their parents, relatives and contacts.
The only reason that Jews are in pornography is that we think that Christ sucks. Catholicism sucks.