Freedom of Speech: Understanding the First Amendment

By: David L. Hudson

Narrated by: David L. Hudson

Length: 5 hrs and 1 min

Publisher's Summary

Free speech lies at the heart of our American identity. The Founding Fathers enshrined this right in the first 45 words of the Bill of Rights.

But what does the First Amendment really mean? How have views of its provisions evolved since 1791?

The First Amendment grants us freedom of religion and the press, as well as the rights to petition and peaceful assembly. But perhaps no doctrine is as important to liberty as the freedom of speech. In this 12-lecture audio course, First Amendment expert Professor David L. Hudson, Jr., leads you on a gripping tour of free speech law in the United States. Holding it up as a blueprint for personal liberty, you will examine the history of the First Amendment as well as the terminology and theories that undergird it.

Freedom of speech encompasses all manner of expression, both verbal and non-verbal. Through a close reading of the Free Speech Clause and a recap of the Founding Fathers’ historical moment, you'll see why it was and continues to be a cornerstone of American culture.

In five hours, this succinct and brilliantly taught course gives you the opportunity to comprehend the historical, legal, and philosophical basis for one of your most vital rights. You will better understand current free speech debates and gain valuable insight into the First Amendment's future.    

©2018 Now You Know Media Inc. (P)2018 Now You Know Media Inc.

Excellent examples and a fantastic narrator

The many examples of various doctrines which have guided Supreme Court decisions are worth the listen alone. The narrator (the author himself) is definitely the best choice for this topic. He emphasizes important parts and speaks so that you can feel that he cares about the subject. I now feel like I fully understand the many controversies surrounding the freedom of speech. And I've acquired a deeper respect for the history of free speech in the US as well as the people who wrote it centuries ago.

Timely and Relevant

This course is timely and relevant to modern times in America. It should be a part of a required college course for all freshman students. Hopefully this material will give students insight into the beauty and significance of the 1st Amendment

Engaging and Informative

The author makes breaks down some complex subjects and makes them easy to follow along with. Very informative, and it was also quite engaging. I will definitely check out some more of this guy's stuff!

A Must Listen

As an American I believe it is beneficial to have a full understanding of my rights. This audible does an amazing job of giving an all around understanding of the freedom of speech and and the First Amendment. David Hudson takes you through the history of the First Amendment in a way that is easy to understand while also keeping in necessary, core information. He does a great job of explaining a legal topic in a clear and concise way that holds your attention. I would recommend this audible for anyone who is studying in law school or just wants a better understanding of the First Amendment. This audio book is a must listen and has urged me to find other pieces written by Prof. David Hudson, Jr.

Brilliant professor!

With a rich understanding of legal concepts, pivotal court decisions, and current controversies, Hudson sheds new light on some of the most important questions of our day. Frankly, he's a great story teller. I found this series both intellectually engaging and a real joy to listen to.

A refreshing listen!

Facts given without the attachment of bias that so often is present in such writings.