1st AmendmentFreedom of Expression

Freedom of expression Freedom to express personal opinions is

essential to a democracy Freedom of speech Freedom of petition Freedom of press Freedom of assembly

Protection to freedom of expression Promote individual growth Is important for the advancement of knowledge Necessary part of our representative government Vital to bringing about peaceful social change Essential for the protection of all individual rights

Seditious libel 1600’s = A crime to publish anything that might be

injurious to the reputation of government Could not:

Defame or ridicule Officers of government The constitution Laws Government policies

Sedition Act of 1798 During the Civil War WWII – black lists Patriot Act???

Restrictions“Liberty is not license to do anything one pleases” No unfairly discrimination

Cannot single our people Time, place and manner

When where, and how expression occurs– One cannot endanger the public’s safety or

national security Cannot be vague

Regulations must be clear

Clear and present danger Prohibiting speech or writings that will endanger

others “Least restrictive means”

Regulations must be narrow to solve specific problem

Libel Ruining somebody’s reputation by “knowingly”

spreading lies about them