Free Speech: From Core Values to Current Debates

Why do we protect free speech? What values does it serve? How has the Supreme Court interpreted the First Amendment? What has the Court gotten right and wrong? Why are current debates over free expression often so divisive? How can we do better? In this succinct but comprehensive and scholarly book, authors Len Niehoff and Thomas Sullivan tackle these pressing questions. Free Speech: From Core Values to Current Debates traces the development and evolution of the free speech doctrine in the Supreme Court and explores how the Court - with varying levels of success - has applied that doctrinal framework to “hard cases” and current controversies, such as those involving hate speech, speech on the internet, speech on campus, and campaign finance regulation. This is the perfect volume for anyone - student, general reader, or scholar - looking for an accessible overview of this critical topic.

Len Niehoff is Professor from Practice at the University of Michigan Law School, where he teaches First Amendment and media law. He has practiced First Amendment law for almost forty years, representing journalists and media outlets in numerous cases. He is the author of more than 100 publications.

Tom Sullivan is President Emeritus and Professor of Law and Political Science at the University of Vermont. Previously he served as Provost at the University of Minnesota and Dean at the University of Minnesota and University of Arizona law schools. He is the author of 12 books and over 75 articles and essays.