Skip to content

Cognitive Quote by John Marshall Harlan II

“We cannot sanction the view that the Constitution, while solicitous of the cognitive content of individual speech, has little or no regard for that emotive function which, practically speaking, may often be the more important element of the overall message sought to be communicated.” quote by John Marshall Harlan II
Download Open image
“We cannot sanction the view that the Constitution, while solicitous of the cognitive content of individual speech, has little or no regard for that emotive function which, practically speaking, may often be the more important element of the overall message sought to be communicated.”

John Marshall Harlan II

About This Quote

Source Court Opinion: Supreme Court case, date unknown

The Constitution protects speech content but often neglects its emotional impact, which can be more crucial.

In simple terms: Speech rights focus on words, not feelings, yet emotions matter.

Key Takeaway

Consider emotional aspects when evaluating free speech.

Themes

law speech emotion

Mood

analytical critical

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • legal analysis
  • media studies
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

constitutional law communication theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should emotional impact be protected like content?
  • How to regulate harmful emotional messaging?
A Different Perspective

Balancing emotional influence with free speech can be complex.

4.5 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by John Marshall Harlan II

Explore all 5 John Marshall Harlan II quotes

More Cognitive quotes

Browse all 296 Cognitive quotes