PJ: 'Freedom of Speech' is a protection under the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights but many countries have policies that restrict certain types of rhetoric including hate speech (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hate_speech). Citizens around the world often scratch their heads at America's defense of their Constitutional right to say whatever they see fit, regardless of who they offend or of rhetoric that might inflame violence.
The Times of India
The US Supreme Court in its ruling has upheld the right to wage ugly protests at funerals under the First Amendment of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech. The case involved a Kansas-based Westboro Baptist Church, which had organized protests at many military funerals with placards like "God Hates the USA" for allowing homosexuals to serve in the military. The 8-1 ruling said the fundamental right of free speech overrides the rights of the family to privacy and protection from emotional distress. The judgement has led to a great deal of debate in the US on how far the First Amendment should be stretched.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/Hate-speech-at-funerals-protected-under-constitution-says-US-top-court/articleshow/7644185.cms
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