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Is Hate Speech Free Speech?

Speaking Freely: A First Amendment Podcast with Stephen Rohde

Speaking Freely: A First Amendment Podcast with Stephen Rohde
Is Hate Speech Free Speech?
Jun 17, 2025 Season 1 Episode 9
Michele Goodwin

Welcome to Speaking Freely: a First Amendment Podcast with Stephen Rohde. In this new series, First Amendment expert Stephen Rohde, who has litigated and written about freedom of expression for decades, will explore some of the most controversial free speech and free press cases decided by the U.S. Supreme Court—looking at hot-button issues like hate speech, defamation, incitement, social media, obscenity, flag burning, espionage, and academic freedom.

In our ninth episode, we delve into cases that ask the question: is hate speech free speech? 

For a full transcript, links to cases referenced in this episode, and further reading, check out our landing page at msmagazine.com/podcast.