Fixed Stars: Famous First Amendment Phrases and Their Indelible Impact

Posted: 20 Jan 2021

See all articles by David L. Hudson, Jr.

David L. Hudson, Jr.

Belmont University - College of Law

Jacob David Glenn

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Date Written: 2020

Abstract

Some passages in First Amendment law have taken on a life and legend of their own, entering our cultural lexicon for their particular power, precision or passion. Some phrases are just so beautifully written that they cannot escape notice. Others aptly capture the essence of a key concept in a memorable way. Still others seemingly have grown in importance simply by the frequency with which they are cited in later court decisions. This article analyzes ten phrases from U.S. Supreme Court First Amendment decisions that qualify as some of the most enduring passages in First Amendment jurisprudence.

Keywords: First Amendment, United States Supreme Court, judicial opinions, legal writing

Suggested Citation

Hudson, David L. and Glenn, Jacob David, Fixed Stars: Famous First Amendment Phrases and Their Indelible Impact (2020). 15 Charleston L. Rev. 189, Belmont University College of Law Research Paper No. 2021-2, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3769577

David L. Hudson (Contact Author)

Belmont University - College of Law ( email )

1900 Belmont Boulevard
Nashville, TN 37212
United States

Jacob David Glenn

affiliation not provided to SSRN

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