Rulings on Free Speech

Rulings on free speech balance individuals' rights to express their ideas with society's interest in safety and order. Courts generally protect most speech, including unpopular opinions, but exceptions exist—such as speech that incites violence, harassment, or spreads false information that harms others. Laws aim to prevent harm while respecting the First Amendment or equivalent rights. Ultimately, free speech rulings involve interpreting where expression crosses the line from protected expression to harmful conduct, ensuring open discourse without compromising public safety or rights.