Communication Quote by Howard Zinn
““The most stringent protection of free speech would not protect a man in falsely shouting fire in a theatre and causing a panic. . . . The question in every case is whether the words used are used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to create a clear and present danger that they will bring about the substantive evils that Congress has a right to prevent.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Civil Liberties Lecture, 1995
Free speech is not absolute; it does not protect speech that creates a clear and present danger, such as falsely shouting fire.
In simple terms: Speech that causes panic isn’t protected.
Key Takeaway
Balance free expression with public safety.
Themes
free speech
public safety
legal limits
civil liberties
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
ethical
legal
When to use this quote
- courts
- legislators
- media outlets
- public venues
Key Concepts
clear and present danger
responsibility
government authority
Questions to Reflect On
- When should speech be limited for safety?
- Who decides what constitutes a clear danger?
A Different Perspective
Defining “danger” can be subjective and politically charged.
