Clear Quote by Louis D. Brandeis
“No danger flowing from speech can be deemed clear and present unless the incidence of the evil apprehended is so imminent that it may befall before there is an opportunity for full discussion. Only an emergency can justify repression.”
About This Quote
Source Legal Essay: The Right of Free Speech, 1919
Speech is only dangerous when an imminent threat is clearly identifiable; otherwise, repression is unjustified.
In simple terms: Speech is only harmful if a clear, immediate danger exists.
Key Takeaway
Protect speech unless a real, immediate threat is present.
Themes
free speech
danger
emergency
repression
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
legal
political
When to use this quote
- legal policy
- media reporting
- political debate
- public safety planning
Key Concepts
imminence
public safety
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we objectively assess imminent danger?
- What safeguards prevent misuse of emergency claims?
A Different Perspective
Determining imminence can be subjective and lead to over‑censorship.
![“We have no clear ideas of the agency of [demonic] spirits, nor is it necessary. The Scripture says little to satisfy our curiosity; but tells us plainly that he is always watching us, and desiring to sift us as wheat. I believe we give him no more than his due, when we charge him with having a…” quote by John Newton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c75/john-newton-6629_abundance_we-have-no-clear-ideas-of-the-agency-of_2907.jpg)
