LAW 400 - The First Amendment - Free Speech & Press

This 3-credit course offers an in-depth examination of contemporary doctrines relating to First Amendment free speech, press, and associational rights. It covers First Amendment theories or justifications, various categories of unprotected expression, and the general requirement of governmental neutrality toward the content of expression. In addition, the course examines the regulation of various forms of expressive conduct, the right not to be compelled to speak or associate with others, and the regulation of hateful and derogatory speech. Students will learn about the standards that apply to government when it acts in special capacities, including as an employer, educator, property manager, subsidizer of private speech, and speaker. Regarding freedom of press, the course covers issues relating to libel, reporters’ privileges, newsgathering rights, and prior restraints on publication. Finally, the course will examine the regulation of speech on social media, including laws that require platforms to carry certain content, standards that apply to public officials’ social media pages, and government efforts to persuade or coerce platforms to remove posts or users.