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Approval Quote by Anthony Kennedy

“The Constitution exists precisely so that opinions and judgments, including esthetic and moral judgments about art and literature, can be formed, tested, and expressed. What the Constitution says is that these judgments are for the individual to make, not for the Government to decree, even with…” quote by Anthony Kennedy
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“The Constitution exists precisely so that opinions and judgments, including esthetic and moral judgments about art and literature, can be formed, tested, and expressed. What the Constitution says is that these judgments are for the individual to make, not for the Government to decree, even with the mandate or approval of a majority. Technology expands the capacity to choose; and it denies the potential of this revolution if we assume the Government is best positioned to make these choices for us.”

Anthony Kennedy

About This Quote

Source Speech: Supreme Court Oral Argument, 2005

The Constitution protects individual judgment in art and morality, limiting government control.

In simple terms: People decide art and moral views, not the government.

Key Takeaway

Defend personal freedom of expression.

Themes

freedom government art morality

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • education
  • media criticism
  • public policy

Key Concepts

constitutional law individual rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should there be limits on artistic expression?
  • How does technology affect personal judgment?
A Different Perspective

Government may still regulate harmful content.

4.2 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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