by Doug Linder (2013)
This site explores the history and interpretation of the First Amendment of the U. S. Constitution, including the Free Speech Clause, the Establishment Clause, and the Free Exercise Clause. For materials on other topics related to the Constitution, visit Exploring Constitutional Law.
THE FREE SPEECH CLAUSE
Introduction
to
the Free Speech Clause
The "Clear & Present Danger" Test for Subversive Advocacy
Advocacy
of
Unlawful Action and the "Incitement Test"
Substantial
Overbreadth
Doctrine
Four-Letter Words and Other Indecent Speech
A Free Speech History Lesson: The Trial of Lenny Bruce
Desecrating Flags and Other Attacks on American Symbols
First
Amendment
Limitations on Civil Law Liability
Does the First Amendment Protect Lies?
Different
Tests
for Different Media?
Permits and Fees for Marches, Parades, Rallies
Speech Restrictions in the Traditional Public Forum
Time, Place, and Manner Regulations
Speech Restrictions in the Limited Public Forum
Speech Restrictions in the Non-Public Forum
Gov't Speech & Conditions on Speech Attached to Gov't Spending
Free
Speech
Rights of Public Employees
The First Amendment and News Gathering: Access to (and Protection of) Sources
Regulation of Commercial Speech
Regulation
of
Child Pornography
Adult-Oriented Businesses and the "Secondary Effects" Test
Free Speech and the State Action Requirement
THE RELIGION CLAUSES
Introduction
to
the Establishment Clause
Vouchers & Other Aid to Religious Schools
The Evolution/Creationism Controversy
Theocracy Issues: Looking for Secular Purposes
Religious Symbols in Public Places
Student-Initiated Religious Speech
The
Free
Exercise Clause: Rise of the Compelling State
Interest Test
The Free
Exercise Clause:
Narrowing of the Test
To
see a course syllabus, jump to: FIRST AMENDMENT LAW
SYLLABUS.
SAMPLE EXAM
PROBLEMS
(All teachers are welcome to adopt this
material
for their own
courses.
DL)
Drafter of the First Amendment
| Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. |
