The first amendment entitles every U.S. citizen the right to freedom of speech and freedom of press. So how can the government then put restrictions on freedoms? Freedom of speech and freedom of press in this nation are limited. You can’t yell “bomb” in an airport, “fire” in a public building such as a mall, or obscene language (swear words or inappropriate words) at sports events such as NBA games. You can’t write a threatening letter to the president. There are “seven dirty words” that can’t be said on television or radio which are certain swear words and inappropriate words that it is illegal to say on public TV or radio or the person who said one of those words is liable for a $250,000 fine. These specific words haven’t been changed or updated in over 30 years, though different inappropriate words have changed since.
However, the first amendment of the United States constitution says that all people are given the rights to free speech and free press. So as I asked before, how can the government put such restrictions on these freedoms? Many people think it’s a good idea to put these restrictions on our freedoms in order to protect the public decency and public safety. I agree with this belief. However, I also believe that it’s unfair for the government to place restrictions on what is listed in the constitution.
