Freedom of Speech
Freedom of Speech
Freedom of Speech (pronunciation: /ˈfriːdəm ɒv spiːtʃ/) is a principle that supports the freedom of an individual or a community to articulate their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction. The term "freedom of expression" is sometimes used synonymously but includes any act of seeking, receiving, and imparting information or ideas, regardless of the medium used.
Etymology
The term "Freedom of Speech" originates from the English words "freedom" (from Old English "frēodōm", meaning "power of self-determination, state of free will; emancipation from slavery, deliverance") and "speech" (from Old English "sprǣc", meaning "speech, talk, discourse; language").
Related Terms
- Censorship: The suppression or prohibition of any parts of books, films, news, etc. that are considered obscene, politically unacceptable, or a threat to security.
- First Amendment: The First Amendment to the United States Constitution prevents the government from making laws which regulate an establishment of religion, prohibit the free exercise of religion, or abridge the freedom of speech.
- Hate Speech: Speech that offends, threatens, or insults groups, based on race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or other traits.
- Defamation: The action of damaging the good reputation of someone; slander or libel.
See Also
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