Communication Law: First Amendment Issues Paper
“It’s easy to understand that the First Amendment protects speakers, but it goes much further. Having the right to speak also implies the right not to be forced to speak. Protecting free expression to promote democracy implies that listeners’ rights also need to be protected. There is a right to hear messages as well as the right not to be forced to hear them.” (Chapter 2 summary bullet point 5.- *attached)
Discuss this principle as it applies in the case of a “captive audience.” Examine speaker rights versus listener rights using the Figure 2.2 (attached) categories and groups. Select one group from each category and share a hypothetical case whereby speaker and listener rights are contested. Provide your rationale for arguing for either the speaker or listener and justify your position with support from the text and two case sources of your choosing.
Reflect on which best communicates and how it impacts your decision making in communication and media practices both personally and professionally.