Freedom of Expression against Governmental Authorities

Abstract

The subject of this study is the justification for limiting negative expression directed at the government: its institutions and public officials, in order to preserve public faith in government. This paper is an abstract of a book that considers this question. The conclusion is that since the value of speech concerned with the performance of government is very high and the interest in protecting the status of government is limited and typically not substantial, there is generally no justification for legal restrictions of this kind.

Keywords: Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Speech, Government, Public Officials, Public Trust

JEL Classification: K10, K30