Air Quote by Louis D. Brandeis
“The general rule of law is, that the noblest of human productions knowledge, truths ascertained, conceptions and ideas become, after voluntary communication to others, free as the air to common use.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Address, 1918, United States Supreme Court
The law should make knowledge and truth freely accessible to everyone, like air.
In simple terms: Law should share knowledge freely.
Key Takeaway
Promote open access to information.
Themes
freedom
knowledge
law
public good
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
philosophical
legal
When to use this quote
- education
- research
- policy making
- media publishing
Key Concepts
intellectual property
public domain
information ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can society protect creators while ensuring public access?
- What limits, if any, should be placed on information sharing?
A Different Perspective
Balancing free access with creators’ rights can be difficult.
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