First Amendment, First Principles:

In First Amendment, First Principles, attorney John F. Wirenius explores challenges to freedom of speech and examines the evolution of how the First Amendment has come to the meaning it bears today. In his bold rethinking of the concept of freedom of speech, Wirenius writes a thorough, scholarly discussion of the body of law surrounding free speech and a passionate defense of his convictions regarding the First Amendment. He reminds us that we must protect the First Amendment in order for it to protect us.

In this revised edition, the author has added a chapter that explores liability for copycat crimes: What is the media's responsibility for violence committed in the aftermath of graphic depictions of murder and other violent acts? He also examines the laws surrounding the exercise of free speech during wartime and cites the latest cases dealing with such subjects as pornography, hate speech, and the Internet.