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114 Freedom of Speech Topics & Essay Examples

Looking for exciting freedom of speech topics to write about? This issue is definitely worth studying!

🔝 Top 10 Freedom of Speech Essay Topics

⁉️ freedom of speech essay: how to write, 🏆 best freedom of speech essay examples & topic ideas, 🔍 simple & easy freedom of speech essay titles, 💡 most interesting freedom of speech topics to write about, ❓ research questions about freedom of speech.

In your freedom of speech essay, you might want to focus on the historical perspective, elaborate on the negative effects of censorship, or even share your personal experience. Whether you will choose to write an argumentative, persuasive, or narrative essay, our article will help! We’ve gathered a list of excellent topics, ideas, and questions, together with A+ freedom of speech essay examples.

• Freedom of speech as an individual and a collective right
• Freedom of speech and its limitations
• Negative effects of censorship
• The origins of freedom of speech
• Freedom of speech as a negative right
• Democracy and freedom of speech
• Freedom of information in the era of Internet
• Freedom of speech and academic freedom
• Liberalism and freedom of speech
• Freedom of speech in the US

Freedom of speech is an important topic because every person has a fundamental right to express their opinions freely. Our ability to express our thoughts allows society to change and develop.

Essays on freedom of speech can raise awareness of the significance of this issue. That is why it is vital to create powerful and well-developed papers on this cause.

You can discuss various topics in your freedom of speech essay. You can search for them online or consult your professor. Here are our suggestions on freedom of speech essay analysis questions:

• The advantages and disadvantages of free speech policies
• The struggle schools face from the perspective of free speech
• The appropriate use of free speech
• The link between the freedom of speech and yellow journalism
• Speech as a personality trait: What the freedom of speech can reveal about people
• Freedom of speech: Pros and cons
• Freedom of speech in the United States (or other countries)

Once you have selected one of the titles for your essay, it is time to start working on the paper. Here are some do’s of writing the essay:

• Select topics that you are most interested in, as your dedication can help you to keep the reader engaged too. You can select one from the freedom of speech essay titles presented above.
• Develop a well-organized freedom of speech essay outline. Think of the main points you want to discuss and decide how you can present them in the paper. For example, you can include one introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs, and one concluding paragraphs.
• Define your freedom of speech essay thesis clearly. You should state it at the end of the introduction. The reader should understand the main point of your paper.
• While working on a persuasive essay, do not forget to include a section with an alternative perspective on the problem you are discussing.
• Remember that a concluding paragraph is vital because it includes a summary of all arguments presented in the paper. Rephrase the main points of the essay and add recommendations, if necessary.
• Check out essay examples online to see how you can structure your paper and organize the information.

Remember that you should avoid certain things while writing your essay. Here are some important don’ts to consider:

• Do not focus on your personal opinion solely while writing your paper. Support your claims with evidence from the literature or credible online sources.
• Do not ignore your professor’s requirements. Stick within the word limit and make sure that your essay meets all the criteria from the grading rubric, if there is one.
• Avoid using personal blogs or Wikipedia as the primary sources of information, unless your professor states it in the instructions. Ask your instructor about the literature you can use for the essay.
• When checking other students’ essays online, avoid copying their ideas. Remember that your paper should be plagiarism-free.
• Make sure that your paper is mistake-free. Grammatical mistakes may make the reader think that your opinion is not credible. It is better to check the essay several times before sending it to your professor.

Don’t hesitate to explore our free samples that can help you to write an outstanding essay!

• Freedom of Speech in Social Media Essay Gelber tries to say that the history of the freedom of speech in Australia consists of the periods of the increasing public debates on the issue of human rights and their protection.
• Freedom of Speech on Campus The primary issue identified by the case study is the extent to which free speech can be used and is protected regarding sensitive social aspects and discussions.
• Balancing Freedom of Speech and Responsibility in Online Commenting The article made me perceive the position of absolute freedom of speech in the Internet media from a dual perspective. This desire for quick attention is the creation of information noise, distracting from the user […]
• Freedom of Speech as a Basic Human Right Restricting or penalizing freedom of expression is thus a negative issue because it confines the population of truth, as well as rationality, questioning, and the ability of people to think independently and express their thoughts.
• Freedom of Speech and Propaganda in School Setting One of the practical solutions to the problem is the development and implementation of a comprehensive policy for balanced free speech in the classroom.
• Twitter and Violations of Freedom of Speech and Censorship The sort of organization that examines restrictions and the opportunities and challenges it encounters in doing so is the center of a widely acknowledged way of thinking about whether it is acceptable to restrict speech.
• Freedom of Speech in Social Networks The recent case of blocking the accounts of former US President Donald Trump on Twitter and Facebook is explained by the violation of the rules and conditions of social platforms.
• Teachers’ Freedom of Speech in Learning Institutions The judiciary system has not clearly defined the limits of the First Amendment in learning institutions, and it’s a public concern, especially from the teachers.
• Freedom of Speech in Shouting Fire: Stories From the Edge of Free Speech Even though the First Amendment explicitly prohibits any laws regarding the freedom of speech, Congress continues to make exceptions from it.
• Freedom of Speech as the Most Appreciated Liberty In the present-day world, the progress of society largely depends on the possibility for people to exercise their fundamental rights. From this perspective, freedom of speech is the key to everyone’s well-being, and, in my […]
• Why Defamation Laws Must Prioritize Freedom of Speech The body of the essay will involve providing information on the nature of defamation laws in the USA and the UK, the implementation of such laws in the two countries, and the reason why the […]
• The Internet and Freedom of Speech: Ethics and Restrictions Because of a lack of security technology, across the board prohibition is justified under the law, a concept that is in itself considered unlawful by a strict definition of the First Amendment of the Constitution […]
• Protesting as a Way of Exercising Freedoms of Speech and Expression However, this department will be very careful in monitoring the behavior of the protestors and engaging in dialogue to solve issues that may lead to conflicts.
• Freedom of Speech: Is Censorship Necessary? One of the greatest achievements of the contemporary democratic society is the freedom of speech. However, it is necessary to realize in what cases the government has the right to abridge the freedom of self-expression.
• Freedom of Speech and the Internet On the one hand, the freedom of expression on the internet allowed the general public to be informed about the true nature of the certain events, regardless of geographical locations and restrictions.
• The Freedom of Speech: Communication Law in US By focusing on the on goings in Guatemala, the NYT may have, no doubt earned the ire of the Bush administration, but it is also necessary that the American people are made aware of the […]
• Freedom of Speech and Expression in Music Musicians are responsible and accountable for fans and their actions because in the modern world music and lyrics become a tool of propaganda that has a great impact on the circulation of ideas and social […]
• Freedom of Speech and International Relations The freedom of speech or the freedom of expression is a civil right legally protected by many constitutions, including that of the United States, in the First Amendment.
• The Importance of Freedom of Speech In a bid to nurture the freedom of speech, the United States provides safety to the ethical considerations of free conversations.
• Freedom of Speech in Modern Media At the same time, the bigoted approach to the principles of freedom of speech in the context of the real world, such as killing or silencing journalists, makes the process of promoting the same values […]
• Freedom of Speech: Julian Assange and ‘WikiLeaks’ Case Another significant issue is that the precedent of WikiLeaks questions the power of traditional journalism to articulate the needs of the society and to monitor the governments.
• Advertising and Freedom of Speech According to Liodice, the marketer should provide the best information to the targeted consumer. The duty of the marketer is to educate and inform the consumer about the unique features of his or her product.
• Freedom of Speech and Expression This implies that autonomy is the epitome of the freedom of expression in many ways. Perhaps, this is the point of diversion between autonomy and restriction of the freedom of expression.
• Freedom of speech in the Balkans Freedom of speech in Montenegro In Montenegro, the practice of the freedom of speech and press were restricted to some issues by the law.
• Freedom of Speech in China and Political Reform Although the constitution of China has the provision of the freedom of speech, association, press and even demonstration, the freedom is not there in reality since the constitution forbids the undertaking of anything that is […]
• Controversies Over Freedom of Speech and Internet Postings It must be noted though that despite the Freedom of Speech being a first Amendment right, subsequent amendments to the constitution as well as various historical acts such as the Sedition Act of 1798 and […]
• Government’s control versus Freedom of Speech and Thoughts One of the most effective measures that oppressive regimes use the world over is the limitation of the freedom of speech and thoughts.
• Freedom of Speech: Exploring Proper Limits In this respect, Downs mentions the philosophy of educational establishments, where “the function of the University is to seek and to transmit knowledge and to train student in the process whereby truth is to be […]
• Freedom of Speech, Religion and Religious Tolerance As stipulated in Article 19 of the Universal Human Rights Declaration, the pastor has the right to share ideas and information of all kinds regardless of the periphery involved and in this case, he should […]
• Human Nature and the Freedom of Speech in Different Countries The paper will look at the human nature that necessitates speech and expression, freedom of speech as applied in different countries and limitations that freedom of speech faces.
• The Freedom Of Speech, Press, And Petition
• How The First Amendment Protects Freedom Of Speech
• The Freedom Of Speech And Gun Ownership Rights
• The Misconception of Hate Speech and Its Connection with the Freedom of Speech in Our First Amendment
• Limitations On Constitutional Rights On Freedom Of Speech
• Teachers’ and Students’ Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression
• Internet Censorship Means No Freedom of Speech
• Freedom of Speech Part of America’s Constitution
• An Examination of the Disadvantage of Freedom of Speech in Slack Activism
• A Description of Freedom of Speech as One of the Most Important Freedoms
• How Censorship In The Media Is Taking AWay Our Freedom Of Speech
• An Analysis of Freedom of Speech and Its Punishments
• The Effects Of Technology On The Right Of Freedom Of Speech
• Freedom of Speech: Missouri Knights of the Ku Klux Klan v. Kansas City
• Problems with Limiting Freedom of Speech
• How The Freedom Of Speech And Its Interpretation Affects
• Giving Up Freedom Of Speech – Censorship On Hate Sites
• Freedom Of Speech, Religion, And The American Dream
• The Freedom Of Speech Across The World Wide Web
• Freedom of Speech: Should There be Restrictions on Speech in the U.S. Democracy
• An Argument in Favor of the Freedom of Speech and Freedom of the Press in Schools
• Freedom Of Speech And Violent Video Games
• The Importance of Freedom of Speech to the Progress of Society
• The Amendment Is Not Protected Under The Freedom Of Speech
• Should There Be Restrictions to Freedom of Speech
• Why Should Myanmar Have Similar Freedom of Speech Protections to the United States
• An Analysis of the Freedom of Speech and the Internet in the United States of America
• Freedom of Speech and the First Amendment
• Free Speech: The Benefits Of Freedom Of Speech
• Comparison of Freedom of Speech: Malaysia vs China
• The Fine Line between Freedom of Speech or Hate Speech
• Freedom Of Speech: One Of The Core Principles Of A Democracy
• Prevent Internet Censorship, Save Freedom of Speech
• The Importance of the First Amendment in Providing Freedom of Speech in America
• How the Freedom of Speech Is Possible Through the Internet in China
• The Importance of Freedom of Speech in Higher Education
• Hate Mail and the Misuse of the Freedom of Speech on the Internet
• A Comparison of Freedom of Speech and Private Property
• Importance Of Freedom Of Speech In Colleges
• Freedom Of Speech and Its Legal Limits
• Freedom Of Speech As An International And Regional Human Right
• The Importance of Protecting and Preserving the Right to Freedom of Speech
• An Overview of the Importance of the Freedom of Speech in the United States
• The Communication Decency Act: The Fight for Freedom of Speech on the Internet
• Freedom Of Speech On Students’s Rights In School
• How Far Should the Right to Freedom of Speech Extend
• Journalism and Freedom of Speech
• The Constitution and Freedom of Speech on the Internet in the U.S
• ‘Freedom of Speech Means the Freedom to Offend.’
• Does the Law Relating to Obscenity Restict Freedom of Speech?
• Does New Zealand Have Freedom of Speech?
• How Far Should the Right to Freedom of Speech Extend?
• Does South Korea Have Freedom of Speech?
• How the First Amendment Protects Freedom of Speech?
• Does Freedom of Speech Mean You Can Say Anything?
• How Do You Violate Freedom of Speech?
• What Are Mill’s Four Main Arguments in Defence of Freedom of Speech?
• What Violates the Freedom of Speech?
• What Are the Disadvantages of Freedom of Speech?
• Does Freedom of Speech Have Limits?
• Why Does Australia Not Have Freedom of Speech?
• What Are the Three Restrictions to Freedom of Speech?
• How Is Freedom of Speech Abused?
• Who Benefits and Loses from Freedom of Speech?
• Is There Freedom of Speech in Media?
• What Are the Limits of Freedom of Speech in Social Media?
• Does Social Media Allow Freedom of Speech?
• How Is Freedom of Speech Negative?
• Where Is Freedom of Speech Not Allowed?
• Is USA the Only Country with Freedom of Speech?
• Does India Have Freedom of Speech?
• Who Made the Freedom of Speech?
• Why Was Freedom of Speech Created?
• Who Fought for Freedom of Speech?
• Women’s Rights Titles
• Censorship Essay Ideas
• Humanism Research Ideas
• Social Justice Essay Ideas
• Cultural Competence Research Topics
• Personal Values Ideas
• Social Democracy Essay Titles
• Constitution Research Ideas
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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10 Freedom of Speech Examples You Need to Know

By Scott A. Leadingham

The First Amendment protects freedom of speech , which means the government can’t prevent people from speaking or punish them for what they say, nor can the government force people to speak if they don’t want to.

But “speech” and the freedom to do it goes beyond the literal act of speaking words out loud. In the U.S., free speech under the First Amendment is broadly applied to many aspects of expression, including writing and listening to music, wearing your preferred clothes in public, performing and viewing a dance recital, writing and reading a book, making and watching movies, creating and appreciating art, donating to a candidate for office, or putting a sign with profanity in your yard.

However, like other First Amendment freedoms, there are legal limits to speech.

The First Amendment detailing the five freedoms it ensures has only 45 words, and what exactly qualifies as free speech is not spelled out word-for-word. Rather, since the First Amendment was added to the Constitution in 1791, the U.S. Supreme Court and lower courts have defined free speech and its exceptions through numerous cases. That's where these freedom of speech examples come in.

Freedom of speech does not cover all forms of speech , including some examples like defamation and libel , making threats , plagiarism , copyright infringement , and obscenity .

In this post we highlight freedom of speech examples based on what courts have ruled over the years.

Discover 10 freedom of speech examples from throughout U.S. history

1. flag burning and desecration.

The act of burning or destroying an American flag is controversial. But it's also a freedom of speech example.

Multiple members of Congress have tried unsuccessfully to pass constitutional amendments to make it illegal. Currently, burning or destroying a flag, sometimes called flag desecration , is speech protected under the First Amendment . The U.S. Supreme Court addressed the topic in a 1989 case ( Texas v. Johnson ). The court ruled in favor of Gregory Lee Johnson , who had been convicted under a Texas law that outlawed flag desecration. Johnson poured kerosene on a flag and set it on fire while protesting at the 1984 Republican National Convention in Dallas. In deciding the case and overturning the state law, the court said the act of burning a flag, while provocative and possibly offensive, is protected expression that counts as free speech under the First Amendment. The next year, the Supreme Court reaffirmed this idea in striking down a federal law prohibiting flag desecration in United States v. Eichman .

2. Political speech

True threats are not protected by the First Amendment  because they can cause someone to fear for their life. But what exactly qualifies as a true threat, as opposed to saying something mean or something that is interpreted as threatening when it really is not, is not so clear cut. The Supreme Court has said a reasonable person must think the threat is actionable and fear for their safety and that the speaker must understand or recklessly disregard that what they are saying is a threat. When it comes to speaking about a political figure, the bar for what qualifies as an actual threat is high.

It is illegal to threaten the president , vice president and certain high-ranking officials. However, political speech, even words that are aggressive or perceived as hateful, is largely protected speech. The Supreme Court ruled on this in 1969 (Watts v. United States). Robert Watts was charged with threatening President Lyndon B. Johnson for saying at an anti-war rally that "if they ever make me carry a rifle, the first man I want to get in my sights is LBJ." The court ruled that Watts "had engaged in a crude form of political hyperbole." The court said his statements came during a political rally, and people who heard his remarks laughed. In other words: It was not a true threat but was protected political speech.

3. Prayer in school

The First Amendment’s establishment clause prevents the government, including public schools, from imposing any religious belief or favoring one religion over another. Public school students may use their First Amendment freedoms of religion and speech to practice their religion in school, including through prayer. In practice this means students may pray by themselves or in groups and meet to talk about matters of faith, including in extracurricular clubs held on campus.

However, schools may restrict prayer (and other activities such as protesting) if it interferes with the learning environment. Public school teachers and staff can also pray and practice their religious beliefs while at school as long as they don’t require or pressure students to join.

Multiple Supreme Court cases have led to this landscape of free speech and religious rights for being able to pray or not be forced to in public schools. In 1962, the court said a New York law requiring a prayer at the beginning of the school day violated the First Amendment. Other Supreme Court decisions in 1992 ( Lee v. Weisman ) and 2000 ( Santa Fe Independent School District v. Doe ) meant public schools could not require prayer at high school graduation or a student-led prayer over the loudspeaker at football games.

Prayer at high school football games is not totally out of bounds. In 2022, the court ruled ( Kennedy v. Bremerton School District ) in favor of a Washington state football coach who had been fired after refusing to stop praying on the field after games. The court said the coach had a First Amendment right to exercise his religious and speech rights through the prayer so long as students were not pressured or required to join.

4. Saying (or not saying) the Pledge of Allegiance  

Saying what you want without being punished is considered free speech. Remaining silent can also be a freedom of speech example. While many schools begin their days by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in classrooms (sometimes over the public address system), public school students cannot be required to say it .

The reason stems from two cases involving Pennsylvania and West Virginia students who were Jehovah’s Witnesses. The students felt swearing an allegiance to a government violated their religious faith, and they were expelled for refusing to say the pledge. In 1940, the Supreme Court ruled ( Minersville School District v. Gobitis ) that a Pennsylvania law requiring students to stand and recite the pledge did not violate the First Amendment. Three years later, the court considered another case from West Virginia students claiming the same thing as the Pennsylvania case. The students had refused to say the pledge and were threatened with reform school. In 1943 ( West Virginia State Board of Education v. Barnette ), the court reversed its previous ruling and said students have a free speech and religious freedom right not to stand or recite the pledge.

@1stforall Are students allowed to refuse to participate in the Pledge of Allegiance? 🇺🇸  #FirstAmendment #FreeSpeech #FYP #ForYou #ForYou #ForYourPage #America #America #American #AmericanFlag #TikTok #students #school ♬ original sound - Freedom Forum

5. Speech and protest in public schools

Unlike the right to vote, the right to free speech and other First Amendment freedoms doesn’t begin at 18. Students under age 18 in public schools still have free speech rights , though that right is not unlimited. Public school administrators can set limits on students’ speech and expression (including what they wear) if such limits are in place to make sure the learning environment is not disrupted.

The case that set the standard for public school students and freedom of speech came in 1969 ( Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District ). Three students, Mary Beth Tinker, 13, John Tinker, 15, and Christopher Eckhardt, 16, were punished by their school for wearing black armbands, a type of speech meant to protest the Vietnam War. The Supreme Court ruled that public school students have their right to free speech, so administrators can’t censor speech just because they think something could be disruptive. Rather, the school must prove the speech has or will substantially disrupt the learning process, which is a higher bar to clear.

6. Political signs  

Every election season brings a common sighting: the political sign , which advocates for or against certain candidates or causes. The Supreme Court identifies these types of signs as the most important type of speech to protect. Regulating political signs and other political speech must only be done without regard for the message itself and instead be done for a non-speech reason, such as to protect public safety by keeping signs of all kinds (political or otherwise) from cluttering state highways. Even these “content-neutral” restrictions on speech must be enforced equally across all viewpoints.

Electioneering is a term to describe several kinds of advocacy and campaigning, like holding political signs, handing out brochures, wearing candidate-specific clothing, asking people to sign petitions, or trying to persuade someone to vote a certain way. All states and the District of Columbia regulate electioneering at voting sites, though not all the same way. This list shows all the electioneering regulations for all states and Washington, D.C. Generally, electioneering restrictions are only upheld if they are narrowly written (for instance, there can be no campaigning within 100 feet of the ballot box on election day).

7. What you wear  

This freedom of speech example has nothing to do with spoken word. What you wear is an example of free expression, which is protected speech under the First Amendment. Public schools have more leeway to restrict clothing or impose dress codes in order to preserve the learning environment.

Multiple state legislatures have tried to restrict drag performances, particularly for drag shows and drag story hours at libraries and where children might attend. In 2023, a federal judge struck down a Tennessee law that restricted drag performances, calling it “unconstitutionally vague and substantially overbroad.” The judge said that while obscenity is not protected by the First Amendment, there is a difference between the legal definition of obscenity and what people merely think is obscene. Also in 2023, a different federal judge struck down a similar Texas law on First Amendment grounds.  

@1stforall Are drag performances protected by the First Amendment? #Drag #DragQueen #FirstAmendment #FreeExpression #FYP #ForYouPage ♬ original sound - Freedom Forum

Many people create and appreciate art. They also spend plenty of time considering what, exactly, constitutes art. Whether painting oil on canvas, sculpting marble or putting objects in a jar, all can fall under the term art. And all can be protected speech under the First Amendment. The Supreme Court has broadly defined “art” and generally avoids imposing its own views on what is and is not art based on its own judgments as to quality, beauty, value, etc.

As with other forms of speech and expression, there are some narrow ways government can censor art under the First Amendment. For example, a public street art performance that uses full nudity and sex acts could be censored because narrowly drafted public nudity laws have been upheld even against First Amendment challenges.

One example of free speech colliding with attempts at government censorship came in 1999 in New York City. As a practicing Catholic and the city’s mayor, Rudy Giuliani didn’t like the publicly funded Brooklyn Museum displaying artist Chris Ofili's painting "The Holy Virgin Mary." The piece used elephant dung and bare butts cut from magazines. Giuliani said it was "sick" and thought it was sacrilegious. He threatened to cancel a larger exhibition at the museum if Ofili’s work wasn't removed. Giuliani cut off the museum's budget and said he'd make it vacate the building. The museum sued . A federal judge said the mayor violated the First Amendment. Ofili, who is Black and Catholic, called his painting "a hip-hop version" of the Virgin Mary. His work returned to the city in 2018 after being donated to the Museum of Modern Art.

9. Writing and reading books

Like art, books come in many styles, sizes and preferences. They also are broadly protected by the First Amendment, meaning the government cannot prevent books from being published and can’t stop people from buying or reading them except in very limited cases. However, standards of obscenity still apply for how and where they are distributed and displayed. Public schools and libraries also may restrict books for educational appropriateness. Parents also have a First Amendment right to petition school boards and public library boards to remove books from curriculum or put them in adults-only sections. That’s one reason the topic of book bans and other censorship attempts is in the news so much.

Today it is uncommon for a book to be stopped from being published – a restrictive government act known as “ prior restraint ” that often violates the First Amendment. However, it wasn’t uncommon in the not-too-distant past. Some books on modern lists of classic literature in the U.S. had a difficult time being printed, distributed and displayed in libraries due to attempts to ban them as obscene. These include works like “Ulysses” by James Joyce (1922), “Tropic of Cancer” by Henry Miller (1934), “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger (1951), and “Naked Lunch” by William S. Burroughs (1959).

Burroughs’ book and the many attempts to ban it helped set the stage for books that government officials tried to block from being published and distributed because they were considered obscene. In 1964, the Supreme Court ruled ( Grove Press v. Gerstein ) that books, like movies , can’t be considered obscene merely because they have sexual material. The standard for obscenity was higher, and obscene material had to be “utterly without redeeming social value.” By that standard, most books and movies were not considered legally obscene but rather were examples of free speech protected by the First Amendment.

10. Political donations

Of all the freedom of speech examples on this list, this one may be the most misunderstood.

It’s said that “money talks” about how currency influences, well, everything, but it can also apply to how it’s perceived as a form of speech in politics. Individuals have a right to donate money to their preferred candidates and causes, but what about corporations, unions and nonprofit organizations? When it comes to campaign donations, do these nonhuman entities have the right to use their money as a form of free speech just as individual people do?

The Supreme Court addressed that in a much-watched 2010 ruling ( Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission ). The court ruled that political spending by corporations and other groups is a form of speech protected by the First Amendment. According to the court, groups don’t have power to spend as much as they want directly supporting candidates, but they can spend unlimited amounts on ads and other forms of direct-to-voters media such as paid-for documentaries, billboards and books.

At the center of a case was a political action group named Citizens United, which had produced documentaries opposing Democrats John Kerry and Hillary Clinton for president in 2004 and 2008, respectively. The Federal Elections Commission limited distribution of the Clinton film, saying it violated campaign finance law passed by Congress in 2002. In ruling for Citizens United, the court said efforts to limit political spending by corporations and other groups violated their First Amendment right to free speech.

The bottom line on freedom of speech examples and current challenges

Since the First Amendment was added to the Constitution as part of the Bill of Rights in 1791, there have been freedom of speech examples stemming from how government tried to enforce restrictions, censor speech and use obscenity laws to keep people from speaking. The First Amendment doesn’t say anything about art, books, clothing or political spending, but they are all examples of how speech is defined and protected.

The U.S. no longer sees the kinds of broad restrictions on speech that resulted in comedians being arrested on stage, theater owners being prosecuted for showing movies with sex scenes, or publishers stopped from printing books. But there are still many questions about how far the First Amendment goes in protecting speech in all its forms.

Do protesters have a right to say anything they want when advocating for their cause or are there limits when people feel threatened or offended? If parents don’t like books found in school libraries or curriculum, how far can the government go in removing them? Are there ways that drag shows and other forms of gender-based expressive performances can be limited that don’t violate the First Amendment

These and other free speech examples frame the modern debate over how the First Amendment ensures everyone can use their right to freedom of speech and exactly what limits the government may impose that are not neatly spelled out in those 45 words.

Scott A. Leadingham is a Freedom Forum staff writer.  Email  

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27 Freedom of Speech Examples

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Freedom of Speech refers to the right of any citizen to express their thoughts, ideas, and opinions without fear of government restraint or censorship (Legal Information Institute, 2020).

The notion of free speech extends beyond verbal communication. It can also defend our rights to use offensive sign language and body language, engage in symbolic and artistic expressions (e.g., flag burning), and even wear clothing that others may find offensive or revealing. Take, for example, the case of Cohen v. California, where the Supreme Court protected an individual’s right to wear a jacket with an expletive as a form of political protest.

Another practical example can be seen in newspapers or media outlets, who are often protected from government persecution by free speech laws. In liberal democracies like the USA and France, the free press are permitted to criticize the government openly.

Free speech helps defend our robust democracies, and makes our political systems more free, fair, and open than nations like Vietnam, China, Hungary, Turkey, and Cambodia whose governments largely control the media and therefore have a stronger monopoly over state power (Lidsky & Cotter, 2016).

Freedom of Speech Examples

• Peaceful protest signs: Peaceful protest signs are protected under free speech laws in most liberal democracies. They represent the direct expression of an individual’s or group’s thoughts and concerns on a political matter (Chenoweth & Stephan, 2011). These signs serve as a non-violent way to demand action, raise awareness, or critique governmental or societal issues. Regardless of the message’s popularity, the freedom to publicly display such signs is protected under freedom of speech, as long, however, as they do not incite violence or unlawful actions.
• Expressing religious beliefs: Freedom of speech in most liberal-democratic nations covers the public expression of religious beliefs (Roth, 2015). This includes wearing religious symbols, discussing religious topics, or participating in religious rituals in public. Importantly, this freedom is granted equally to all religions and even no-religion atheists and agnostics, who have the freedom to promote their non-beliefs. Such a law allows for a diverse array of religious expressions in public forums such as online and in universities.
• Wearing symbolic clothing: The Supreme Court of the USA has upheld the right of individuals to wear expressive clothing as a form of symbolic speech (Cohen v. California, 1971). This can include everything from protest t-shirts to flag pins and allows individuals to wear their opinions literally on their sleeves.
• Artistic expressions of dissent: Artistic expressions, including painting, music, and theater, are vehicles to express dissenting ideas or critique societal norms (Reitman, 2014). These expressions allow for creative commentary on the prevailing cultural, political, or social climates , contributing to the diversity of discourse within society. However, this would not be protected if the art were painted onto other people’s or public property, such as in the case of graffiti art.
• Criticizing government actions: In most liberal democratic nations, freedom of speech also includes the right to voice dissent publicly and criticize government policies or actions (Stroud, 2011). This encourages transparency and accountability, empowering citizens to serve as a check on governmental power.
• Satirical commentary on society: Protected under freedom of speech in many nations, satirical commentary allows for a critique of individuals, groups, and societal norms through humor and irony (Stankiewicz, 2017). Satire plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy society by promoting dialogue about difficult issues in a manner that engages audiences and provokes thought. For example, Charlie Hebdo’s incendiary satirical pictures of Islamic figures was offensive, but allowed, under France’s robust free speech laws.
• Advocating for social change : One of the most potent uses of free speech is the ability to advocate for social change (Meyerson, 2010). This can occur in many ways, such as public speeches, organized protests, or social media campaigns, allowing individuals and groups to bring attention to societal issues and push for change.
• Publicly debating controversial topics: Freedom of speech upholds the right to participate in public debate on controversial topics (Fish, 2016). Such debates often expose varying viewpoints and challenge assumptions , (even if you’re ill-informed!).
• Sharing scientific theories: Academic freedom, a facet of freedom of speech, allows researchers to share scientific theories or findings even if they are controversial (Karran & Mallinson, 2017), without facing fear of being fired. This is a central concept in the tenure system in the USA. This openness promotes progress and innovation by enabling knowledge exchange and peer scrutiny.
• Blogging personal political views: Blogging platforms provide a space for individuals to express their political opinions freely and discuss matters of public concern (Sunstein, 2017). This democratizes access to political discourse and helps cultivate a more informed public, but may also unfortunately spread misinformation – which is a key downside of free speech.
• Writing a critical book review: Freedom of speech permits individuals to write and publish critical reviews of books (or other forms of media), helping to facilitate discourse and contribute to the literary or artistic community (D’Haen, 2012). Such reviews, positive or negative, aid in the critical reception and evaluation of the work, influencing its public reception, but, generally, if not slanderous, cannot be censored.
• Political campaign speeches: When politicians deliver speeches during their campaign, they practice their freedom of speech (Kenski & Stroud, 2016). Their speeches allow voters to understand their stances on various issues, crucial for informed voting. They’re often critical of the government, but yet are allowed, in order to sustain a robust democratic society.
• Publishing an investigative article: Investigative journalism, protected by freedom of speech, involves in-depth reporting to uncover hidden issues in society or government (Tumber & Waisbord, 2019). It serves as a watchdog, promoting transparency , and accountability. This allows papers like the New York Times and Wall Street Journal to release cutting-edge investigative journalistic pieces.
• Whistleblowing on corporate wrongdoing: Freedom of speech protects whistleblowers who expose unethical practices within corporations, serving as a fundamental check on corruption and wrongdoing (Kohn, 2010). This form of expression is critical for maintaining trust and integrity within industries.
• The right to offend: Freedom of speech includes the right to offend, meaning individuals are allowed to voice opinions or ideas, however, potentially offensive they may be to some (Strossen, 2018). This freedom allows for a wide range of expressions, fostering diverse and dynamic dialogue within society.
• The right to silence: Often conceptualized as “the right to remain silent,” this right protects individuals from self-incrimination and stands as an integral aspect of free speech (Franks, 2014). This guarantees individuals’ liberty to choose when and how they express themselves. In the USA, this is protected under the 5th amendment.
• Social media activism: Activism through social media platforms falls under the umbrella of freedom of speech (Loader & Mercea, 2011). This allows individuals to raise awareness, mobilize supporters, and campaign for change at unprecedented speeds and scales.
• Public speaking at a rally: Individuals addressing a crowd at a public rally exercise their freedom of speech by expressing their beliefs and advocating for causes they support (Tufekci, 2017). Public speeches can rally support, influence opinions, and draw attention to essential issues.

See Also: 40 Types of Freedom

Free Speech and the US Constitution (First Amendment)

While encased in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution, freedom of speech was originally designed to maintain civil liberties an open, democratic society whereby all individuals could express their comments and opinions freely (Stroud, 2011).

The framers believed that unchecked and unrestricted discussion would lead to the truth, and bad ideas would be debunked by the good ideas. This idea is often described in the metaphor ‘sunshine is the best disinfectant’.

The USA has one of the most libertarian readings of free speech, and while other liberal democracies protect speech, none are quite as robust in their protections than the USA.

Interestingly, freedom of speech also covers the right to be silent. For instance, the Fifth Amendment of the United States constitution protects an individual’s right not to make self-incriminating statements under interrogation, often conceptualized as “the right to remain silent” (Franks, 2014).

The Constitutional Limits of Free Speech

Freedom of speech does not mean absolute freedom . Contrary to some misconceptions, this right is not without its boundaries (Smith & Kavanagh, 2015).

There are indeed restrictions that one must adhere to, such as libel, slander, obscenity, sedition, and incitement, to name a few.

For instance, hate speech that incites violence or harm towards a specific group is typically not protected by the right to free speech in the USA (Brimelow v. Alexandria Women’s Health Clinic, 2012).

Famous Freedom of Speech Cases in the United States

Tinker v. des moines (1969): student vietnam war protests.

This landmark case marked a significant decision protecting students’ rights to free speech (Abernathy, 2007). John Tinker and his fellow anti-war agitators were suspended from their Des Moines school for wearing black armbands to protest the Vietnam War. Upon appeal, the Supreme Court of the United States argued that their actions we free speech. Being non-disruptive of minimally disruptive, are protected. The court stated, “students do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate,” establishing a precedent for future freedom of speech cases in education settings, such as the freedom to wear political slogans on your clothing at public schools.

New York Times Co. v. United States (1971): Defending Press Freedom

In this case, better known as the “ Pentagon Papers Case ,” the government tried to prevent the New York Times from publishing classified documents containing information that the US government was trying to hide because it demonstrated unfavorable information about the USA’s role in the Vietnam War (Rudenstine, 2014). The Supreme Court ruled in favor of the New York Times. It affirmed the principle of no prior restraint, which means that the government cannot stop the publication of a news story pro-actively, except in extremely rare circumstances. This case reaffirmed the robustness of press freedom in the USA.

Texas v. Johnson (1989): The Right to Flag Burning

This case involved Gregory Lee Johnson who burned an American flag as a form of political protest. This led to his arrest under a now-defunct Texas law banning “flag desecration” (Goldstein, 2016). The Supreme Court overturned his conviction stating that Johnson’s act was symbolic speech and, therefore, protected by the First Amendment. Here, we can see that ‘speech’ isn’t just about speaking but also symbolism . This decision significantly reinforced the idea of protection for symbolic speech under the freedom of speech.

Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010): Money is Speech

This case addressed the issue of campaign financing, where the court found that giving money to a political candidate was seen as ‘political speech’ and therefore protected by the first amendment (Magarian, 2010). Citizens United, a non-profit organization, challenged a regulation barring corporations and unions from funding political campaign ads. The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Citizens United . This, in turn, allowed unlimited corporate spending in elections, asserting that such “political speech” was protected under the First Amendment. Detractors – including myself – think this case essentially positioned corporations as people, which is ridiculous, and led to the devastating hyper-politicization of elections we see to this day.

Snyder v. Phelps (2011): The Right to Offend

This case involved the Westboro Baptist Church’s right to picket military funerals with fundamentalist anti-military sentiments, resulting in an emotional distress lawsuit from the father of a fallen marine (Carpenter, 2011). The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Westboro Baptist Church . The justices argued that the expression represented matters of public concern, thus protected under the First Amendment, no matter how offensive this behavior truly was.

Schenck v. United States (1919): The Limitations of Free Speech

Charles Schenck, Secretary of the Socialist Party, was arrested for distributing leaflets opposing the draft during World War I (Lewis, 2008). The Supreme Court upheld his conviction under the Espionage Act, ruling that Schenck’s actions posed a “clear and present danger” to national security. This case is important as it established the “clear and present danger” standard for limiting freedom of speech. Although, in my opinion, this ruling was counter to many other Supreme Court findings that held very absolutist perspectives toward free speech, and demonstrated the constant right-wing leanings of US supreme courts over the years.

While “freedom of speech” can often seem like an expansive term, understanding its roots in the democratic principles of open discussion and societal checks and balances can offer some enlightening contexts. However, as discussed above, there are indeed certain conditions and restrictions and, like any freedom, it necessitates responsible handling. Interestingly, strong free speech laws in the USA have led to many perverse outcomes which demonstrates that they may be too lenient; while in my home country of Australia, free speech is often protected, but the laws are much more strict. Finding the right balance is extremely difficult.

Abernathy, M. (2007). First Amendment Law Handbook . Thomson/West.

Brimelow v. Alexandria Women’s Health Clinic, 132 S. Ct. 2681 (2012).

Carpenter, D. H. (2011). Westboro Church’s Funeral Picketing is Free Speech . Supreme Court Debates.

Franks, D. D. (2014). The Fifth Amendment: Double Jeopardy, Due Process , and the Nature of the Interrogation Process. Routledge.

Goldstein, R. (2016). Flag Burning and Free Speech: The Case of Texas v. Johnson. University Press Of Kansas.

Legal Information Institute. (2020). Freedom of Speech. Cornell Law School. Retrieved from https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/freedom_of_speech

Lewis, A. (2008). Freedom for the Thought That We Hate: A Biography of the First Amendment. Basic Books.

Lidsky, L. B. & Cotter, R. T. (2016 ). Freedom of the Press: A Reference Guide to the United States Constitution . Greenwood.

Magarian, G. P. (2010). The Democracy of Direct Speech. Wm. & Mary Law Review, 97.

Rudenstine, D. (2014). The Day the Presses Stopped: A History of the Pentagon Papers Case. University of California Press.

Smith, K. E., & Kavanagh, D. (2015). Freedom of Speech: The History of an Idea . Penn State University Press.

Stroud, N. J. (2011). Niche News: The Politics of News Choice . Oxford University Press.

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Hi Professor Drew: I am so-o-o-o enjoying your site. I am an ESL teacher, and I use it extensively to introduce the students to American culture. I really like the deep dives into specific topics, like The American Dream, and Freedom of Speech. A fantastic resource! Thank you!

Hi Jane, thanks so much for reaching out and I’m so glad my website is a useful resource for you. All the best with your teaching!

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Freedom Of Speech - Essay Examples And Topic Ideas For Free

Freedom of speech is a principle that supports the freedom of an individual or community to articulate their opinions without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction. Essays could explore the various interpretations of freedom of speech, its limitations, and its impact on democracy and societal harmony. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Freedom Of Speech you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

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Related topic

How to write an essay about freedom of speech, understanding the concept of freedom of speech.

Before you start writing an essay about freedom of speech, it is important to understand what the concept entails. Freedom of speech, often considered a fundamental human right, is the ability to express one's opinions and ideas without fear of government retaliation or censorship. Begin your essay by defining freedom of speech and its importance in a democratic society. You might also want to explore its historical origins, how it has evolved over time, and how it is implemented in different countries. This foundational understanding sets the stage for a more in-depth exploration of the topic.

Developing a Thesis Statement

A compelling essay on freedom of speech should have a clear and concise thesis statement. This statement should present your unique perspective or argument about freedom of speech. For instance, you might argue that freedom of speech is essential for democracy, or that there should be limitations to freedom of speech to prevent hate speech and misinformation. Your thesis will guide the direction of your essay and provide a central argument for your readers to consider.

Gathering Supporting Evidence

To support your thesis, gather relevant evidence and examples. This might include legal cases, historical examples, current events, or academic research. For example, if you are discussing the limitations of freedom of speech, you might examine specific legal cases that demonstrate the consequences of unchecked speech. This evidence is crucial as it backs up your argument and provides a solid foundation for your essay.

Analyzing Different Perspectives

An essay about freedom of speech should also consider different perspectives and counterarguments. This could include examining arguments for and against limitations on speech, such as national security concerns, hate speech laws, or the right to protest. Discussing these different viewpoints shows a comprehensive understanding of the topic and can strengthen your argument by demonstrating that you have considered various angles.

Concluding Your Essay

Your conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis in light of the evidence and discussion provided. It's an opportunity to emphasize the importance of freedom of speech and its impact on society. You might also want to highlight any areas where further research or discussion is needed, or the potential future challenges to freedom of speech.

Final Review and Editing

After writing your essay, review and edit it for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. Ensure that your arguments are well-structured and supported by evidence. Pay attention to grammar and syntax to ensure your writing is clear and professional. Seeking feedback from others can also provide new insights and help polish your essay. A well-written essay on freedom of speech not only reflects your understanding of the topic but also your ability to engage critically with complex societal issues.

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Essay Samples on Freedom of Speech

The issue of social media and freedom of speech.

Social media platforms have become a powerful tool for self-expression, information sharing, and public discourse. However, the relationship between social media and freedom of speech is complex. Therefore this essay raises important questions about the boundaries of online expression, censorship, and the responsibilities of platform...

• Freedom of Speech
• Social Media

The Importance of Freedom of Speech: Upholding Democracy and Fostering Progress

Why freedom of speech is important? In a world where ideas shape societies and opinions guide actions, the concept of freedom of speech holds immense significance. It serves as a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering open discourse, promoting diverse viewpoints, and ultimately contributing to societal...

• Freedom of Expression

Freedom of Speech: Balancing Liberties and Responsibilities

Freedom of speech is a fundamental pillar of democratic societies, ensuring that individuals have the right to express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without fear of censorship or persecution. However, as with any right, there is the potential for abuse. This essay explores the delicate...

Challenges to the Freedom of Speech on College Campuses

Background and History When the constitution of United States was laid in the year 1769, one of the rights that were cherished by the most Americans was the freedom of speech. This right was incorporated in the First Amendment to the Constitution, which gives all...

• Academic Freedom

Importance of The First Amendment: Free Speech, Free Press, Free Society

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution states the following: “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...

• American Constitution

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How Freedom of Speech is Used Today

Freedom of speech is beneficial in many different ways because people around the United States are able to express what they feel about certain things that goes around America, but it can lead to extreme cases like talking about religious, race and many other groups...

• Free Speech

Censorship and Freedom of Speech Online

One doesn’t have to spend much time at all on the internet to realize that censorship is present to some extent in nearly all online forums. Any platform which allows users to post original thoughts in the form of words, pictures, and videos, typically has...

• Internet Censorship

David Horowitz and DHFC: A Threat to Students Social Rights

The major topic of this analysis refers to how the David Horowitz Freedom Center (DHFC) is a hate group based on how its namesake founder advances arguments for academic freedom by framing them as calls to make free speech an absolute right in the United...

• Hate Speech

Arguments for Ensuring the Freedom of Speech in US

Did you know that the happiest country on earth in 2017 was Norway? Did you also know that according to article 100 of The Constitution of Norway, Norwegians are given the right to having freedom in their speech? Denmark, also named to be the happiest...

Freedom of Speech Represented by David Irwin

Supreme Court has struggled to determine what exactly constitutes protected speech. Not speaking, using offensive language to convey political messages, students wearing black armbands to school to protest a war (“Students do not shed their constitutional rights at the schoolhouse gate.”), contributing money to campaigns,...

A Case Study of the American Right to the Freedom of Speech

One of our rights in the United States is freedom of speech, which is guaranteed by the First Amendment. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution, “...prohibits the making of any law respecting an establishment of religion, ensuring that there is no prohibition on...

• First Amendment

Freedom of Speech and Journalism in Press of Vietnam

Introduction Freedom of speech and journalism play vital roles in promoting democracy, transparency, and accountability in any society. In the context of Vietnam, these fundamental rights face significant constraints and challenges. This essay examines the state of freedom of speech and journalism in Vietnam, exploring...

Holocaust Denial as a Form of Hate Speech

In April of 2018, at Spanish River Community High School, emails were exchanged between the principal and a parent regarding the curriculum on the Holocaust. A parent was offended by the fact that the Holocaust was taught in school as a historical fact. This parent...

Freedom of Speech and Media Ownership in Ireland

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Essays on Freedom of Speech

Freedom of speech is among the fundamental human rights and an integral part of freedom of information – advocate for freedom of speech as you can, even if it via a freedom of speech essay. Freedom of speech essays define it as an opportunity to publicly and freely express one's opinion, orally, or in writing. Essays on freedom of speech implore you to remember that in some countries law limits freedom of speech for the purposes of incitement to crimes, violent government overthrow, racial, national, or religious hatred, disclosure of state and other secrets protected by law, for encroachments on public morality and ethics. Some countries prohibit freedom of speech, such as North Korea, Burma, Libya, and others. Write away after checking out our freedom of speech essay samples. Find essay samples for you to learn from below!

Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech is held in an ever-present and rising awe. The entire statement is insightful and well-written, utilizing a number of literary and communication techniques. Martin Luther King gave a speech in front of more than 20,000 people that was inspirational and built...

Political and Economic Processes in Different Regions Political and economic processes vary in each region, but there are a few parallels that characterize their mechanisms. Many nations in the world follow one of two government systems: democratic or authoritarian. People of democratic countries are required to participate in government relations (Lee...

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Ethical Concerns and Freedom of Speech Ethical concerns are the standards governing freedom of speech which, according to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, "everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression, which means the freedom to hold his or her opinion without interference and to seek the same...

The balance between one person's right to freedom of expression and the right of another person to protect one's integrity is often fragile. It is difficult to correctly state the personal comments are in order and which go against the rule of diffamation. The word diffamation has as many meanings...

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Home — Essay Samples — Social Issues — Freedom of Speech — The Significance of Freedom of Speech

The Significance of Freedom of Speech

• Categories: Freedom of Speech

About this sample

Words: 541 |

Published: Jan 29, 2024

Words: 541 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Definition of freedom of speech, importance of freedom of speech, limitations on freedom of speech, controversial cases and debates, freedom of speech in the digital age, counterarguments and rebuttal.

• United Nations. "Universal Declaration of Human Rights." United Nations, 1948.
• Shapiro, David L. "Freedom of Speech: History , Ideas, and Legal Due Process." New York University Press, 2005.
• Matal, Michael (ed). "Freedom of Speech." Oxford University Press, 2017.

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Freedom of Speech Argumentative Essay

Does freedom of speech give people the right to use hate speech.

“What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist”

Salman Rushdie.

The quote perfectly sums up the never-ending debate about freedom of speech and hate speech. It is a well-known fact that freedom of speech and expression belongs to the group of fundamental human rights of every person on this planet. Lately, we are witnessing the rising concerns about hate speech, is it protected by this basic human right or freedom of speech should have some limitations? Given the fact that every individual is allowed to express thoughts and beliefs, banning the negative comments would, in fact, deny his or her basic rights i.e. freedom of speech.

Freedom of speech reinforces all other human rights, thus allowing society to develop and progress at a constant rate. The ability to state our opinion and speak freely is pivotal for any change in society. Throughout the history, society evolved thanks to the individuals, great thinkers, brave leaders, who were not scared to express their beliefs. Back in time, those beliefs that were contrary to the typical “mindset” would be considered as hate, a hatred towards their way of life, culture, and tradition. The most reputable professors, experts, and campaigners only confirm that free speech has always been used to fight for change, for better times.

Besides reinforcement of other human rights, free speech is also essential due to the ability to hear others and be heard at the same time. We need to hear other people’s views as well as offering them our own opinions. Unfortunately, one of the fastest-growing problems of our society is that people rarely listen to others and acknowledge their takes on certain topics if they don’t agree with them. We should feel comfortable exchanging ideas and thoughts with those who have opposing views. Experts agree that way there would be less “hate speech” circling around.

We hear or read the term “hate speech” a lot, especially now with the easy internet access and a multitude of social media websites to join. It comes as no wonder why insulting comments and expressing negative ideas are considered a threat to the humanity. A lot of people are anti-Semitic, anti-Muslim, anti-gay marriage, and so on. Those who assume hate speech is not a freedom of speech, primarily, focus on the expression of a negative attitude towards certain people and ideas. However, if we start banning people from expressing their beliefs, then what comes next? After one thing, there always comes another and, eventually, the mankind would live in fear of saying anything. The reality is that the society has become oversensitive; everything one does not agree with is considered insulting and branded as hate.

Finally, freedom of speech is the most important human right that every individual has the right to exercise. This freedom comes with the ability to express one’s opinion, regardless of its nature good or bad. What our society needs today are not limitations of free speech, but making efforts to establish dialogues between people with conflicting beliefs. Listening and being heard will go a long way; that way we could build bridges instead of burning them.

https://www.news.cornell.edu/stories/2011/03/free-speech-central-democracy-rossi-says

https://www.indexoncensorship.org/2016/04/free-speech-important/

https://www.debate.org/opinions/does-freedom-of-speech-give-us-the-right-to-offend

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