Freedom of Speech in the United States

This award-winning textbook explores the evolution of free speech rights through major legislation and Supreme Court cases. Clear explanations and landmark case summaries show how historical challenges arise anew with new technology, political issues, and social concerns.

Fully updated, this edition integrates recent laws and court cases, showing how historical issues--such as prior restraint, sedition, defamation--shape Internet-age concerns such as hate speech, privacy, access, reporters' shield laws, file sharing and copyright, and student speech rights on and off campus.

"Freedom of Speech in the United States is the best treatment of the First Amendment of any text on the market, spot on for introducing students to the philosophical concepts of the topic." (Rita Kirk, Southern Methodist University)

"The authors have written a near-perfect textbook for the way I teach freedom of expression. The primary strengths include its clear and systematic structure, excellent writing, and exhaustiveness of the material, especially cases. I believe there is no better text about freedom of expression for my students." (Michel Dupagne, University of Miami)

"I am an enthusiastic fan of the text. I have always found it to be well written and comprehensive and to provide rich historical background/context. The revisions make the book stronger and more up-to-date." (Dan Kozlowski, Saint Louis University)

"The book is very comprehensive; it uses landmark court case boxes; and it is scholarly and accessible at the same time. It is a solid core text. The authors keep it current through new editions." (Lillian Beeson, University of Pittsburgh, Greensburg)

"I really like this text and have the greatest respect for the authors and editors. Thanks for providing this wonderful resource." (David Vest, Colorado State University)

"All in all, a great text!" (David Dewberry, Rider University)