Civil Liberties and Rights - Freedom of Speech

These flashcards cover key concepts related to civil liberties, specifically focusing on freedom of speech and landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped the understanding of this right.

Freedom of Speech

The right to express one's thoughts and beliefs, protected by the First Amendment.

Disruptive Speech

Speech that threatens public safety and/or order, which can be restricted by the government.

Schenck v. United States

A 1919 case where the Supreme Court ruled against Schenck, stating his speech posed a 'clear and present danger' during wartime.

Seditious Speech

Speech aimed at overthrowing the government or endangering national security.

Defamatory Speech

Speech that is intended to harm someone, which can be categorized as slander (spoken) or libel (written).

Obscene Speech

Speech that, according to the Supreme Court, is defined based on community standards and may include words, images, or actions.

Symbolic Speech

Non-verbal communication that conveys a message and is also protected under the First Amendment.

Tinker v. Des Moines

A 1969 Supreme Court case that upheld students' rights to wear armbands in protest, establishing that students do not lose their constitutional rights at school.

Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission

A 2010 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed corporations have free speech rights, allowing them to spend money on political campaigns.