
Living with the Constitution (with A.J. Jacobs)
EconTalk
Evolution of Freedom of Speech in the US
Freedom of speech in the United States has evolved significantly over the years. In the 1940s and 50s, the expansion of freedom of speech was influenced by lawsuits filed by the Jehovah's Witnesses. Initially, in the 18th century, freedom of speech was more restricted with state laws against blasphemy and cursing. These laws were considered constitutional as they aimed to balance individual rights with the common good, viewing rights as not absolute.
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