This comprehensive book examines the theoretical underpinnings of free speech and provides crucial insights into the contemporary resurgence of debates over its importance. Contributing authors critically analyse many of these disputes, including the regulation of online speech, current attacks on universities, and on the civil service.Leading scholars address the reasons why societies choose to protect freedom of expression, mapping both its current and future landscape with a particular focus on free speech institutions such as universities and the press. Other chapters highlight the distinct issues raised by the intersection of private power and free expression, and examine international variation in protections for free expression. The book also investigates the role of other expressive rights, including freedom of assembly, association, and petition.The Elgar Companion to Freedom of Speech and Expression is a crucial resource for scholars and students, particularly those in the fields of constitutional law, human rights, law and society, and political science. It is also useful for practicing lawyers looking for insight on litigation issues regarding freedom of expression and associated topics.
