The First Amendment right to free speech or free expression is a revered and fundamental right in the American political system. Which of the following is NOT one of the often-cited justifications for protecting free speech?
a. Most other societies allow free speech, so to disallow it in the United States would create undue tensions among citizens.
b. Free speech creates a marketplace of ideas.
c. Self-governance is dependent upon free speech.
d. Free speech can lead to self-fulfillment.
e. Free speech is a safety valve that balances the need for order with reform.
Question 2
The issue of prayers at school graduations and ball games has also been addressed by the Supreme Court as recently as 2000 in Santa Fe v. Doe. What is the stance of the Court in regard to prayers at such events where attendance is voluntary?
a. Since attendance is voluntary and the participation in the prayer is not required, the prayers do not violate the Constitutions protections.
b. The prayers are allowed because these events are attended by more adults than minors.
c. The Court failed to rule on the specific issue of prayer but discouraged it because of the public nature of the event.
d. Even though attendance is voluntary, the prayer is unconstitutional because the attendees are forced to participate and because it appears to be a state endorsement of religion.
e. The prayers are unconstitutional because not all religions have equal time allotted to offer their prayers.