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<p>But the constitution never promised us speech free from consequences. We are free to express our beliefs, and no government law will be passed to keep us from expressing ourselves, but that does not mean that we cannot be held accountable (fired, expelled from school, censured by our peers, etc.) for it.</p>
<p>As to criminal charges, I confess that I’ve always believed that we cannot be criminally prosecuted for the content of our speech, but I guess even that notion must be in error as someone inciting others to riot or to kill others can be prosecuted, as can the oft referenced individual inciting panic in a crowded movie theater shouting “fire!” We also have restrictions on our speech which could cause a hostile environment related to racism, sexual or religious harassment, etc. Not all speech is protected, yet it seems impossible to find the exact definition of constitutional free speech.</p>
<p>I know the courts have long grappled with how to interpret and apply the first amendment. Clearly not anything goes with regard to speech, but where the line is firmly drawn seems to be a huge matter of contention.</p>