Freedom of Speech

Definition

Freedom of speech is a principle that supports the freedom of an individual or community to articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction.

Analogy

Think about freedom of speech like your school's open mic night. You can get up on stage and say almost anything you want - a poem, a joke, an opinion - as long as it doesn't harm others or incite violence.

Related terms

First Amendment: The First Amendment to the United States Constitution prevents government from making laws which regulate an establishment of religion, prohibit the free exercise of religion, or abridge the freedom of speech.

Censorship: Censorship is the suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security.

Hate Speech: Hate speech is communication that carries no meaning other than the expression of hatred for some group, especially in circumstances in which the communication is likely to provoke violence.