Freedom of Speech

Types of Free Speech Free speech includes verbal expressions of thought and opinion and symbolic speech, using actions and symbols Because symbolic speech involves action, it may be limited by government restrictions that do not apply to free speech.

Supreme Court Rulings on Regulating Free Speech The rights of free speech must be balanced against the need to protect society. Free speech may be limited when it presents an immediate danger Free speech can be restricted even if it only tends to lead to illegal action

Supreme Court Rulings on Regulating Free Speech The Court has held that people are free to speak out in support of political objectives. Free speech does not protect those who advocate immediate and specific acts of violence

Unprotected Types of Speech The First Amendment does not protect defamatory speech Defamatory speech includes slander (spoken words) and libel (written words), in false and damaging statements about someone.

Unprotected Types of Speech Public officials and public figures in general are excluded from the right to sue for slander, in order to preserve an individual’s right to criticize the government School authorities can regulate student’s rights to free speech at school events and during activities