Freedom of Speech

So. For Americans the definition and guidelines for freedom of speech are set out in the First Amendment. This amendment protects rights such as freedom of the press which has grown to include aspects of television, radio, and most recently, internet. The debate today is how much freedom of speech or freedom of press should the internet be allowed. Should it follow the guidelines set out for books and other printed material,which is relatively broad and open, or should it be restricted much like radio, which has less freedom and is more carefully regulated? Topics such as the legality of posting pornographic websites or sites with obscene language have been discussed. Should these sites be allowed in an area where children in general can have access to them? There is also the ongoing debate of whether comapnies, schools or parents in homes should simply use filters to block unwanted sites. This is discussed in conjunction with the argument that it should not be made 'illegal' to have these kinds of sites available for people who want them. This is what we have been discussing in class these past few weeks and it is an very important question. Internet is a new forum for information and its restrictions are still under construction, which can be good in that it allows a free flow of all different types of information and opinions. However, this also leaves loopholes which leave minors vulnerable to inappropriate material even in the safety of their own home. I feel that this will continue to be debated and worked out for several years to come before a firm final decision can be made.