The First Amendment reads “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievance.”
Knowing that speech can be used for hate, violence, libel, or slander, what are the reasons that we protect it?
- Democracy and individual freedom require meeting places and channels for the exchange of information and ideas.
- Speech leads to the discovery and spread of important truths.
- Speech is essential to a representative government because political discourse is necessary for a democracy to function.
- Free speech promotes political stability by providing a safety valve for dissent.
- Free speech includes protection of literature because of its quality in enhancing political discourse.
- Speech has an expressive purpose for individual liberty, autonomy, and self-fulfillment. Political systems are composed of individuals who, if able to fully realize themselves, are better for society and the political process.
What else would you add?
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Posted in: Courts, Miscellaneous
Louise Behiel
May 10, 2012
In Canada, we don’t have this exact same right, although free speech is somewhat protected in our charter of rights. (I’m going to have to review i t to be sure) but it seems a shame that anyone can say anything and claim their right to free speech even tho it’s dishonest. I think your founding fathers would turn over in their graves at how it’s being used today.
wanderlustathome
May 13, 2012
Interesting blog. Will keep coming back. Thanks for visting my page
fearlessanalyst
May 28, 2012
Very interesting! I am also in Canada; I think the original purpose was to protect the right to express an opinion, even if it wasn’t a popular one. But it has become farcical, with current extremes like the right to make any kind of movie, or to get away with false advertising, etc. Incidentally, I place a high value on Canadian laws against inciting hatred – I’m not sure if this helps keep us more ‘peaceful’, or if peacefulness is partly a byproduct of the law.
The odd time when I’ve read writings of your ‘founding fathers’, they often seemed so wise and full of insight.
bastikononion
May 28, 2012
Reblogged this on roastedonion and commented:
and another article from crimedime.com
bastikononion
May 28, 2012
Reblogging went wrong somehow. I just tested it.
You can see it here: https://roastedonion.wordpress.com/2012/05/28/crimedime-crimedime-how-do-we-justify-protecting-free-speech/