James L. Walker (1942-2019) taught political science at Wright State University for 33 years. He was a captain in the Army stationed at the Pentagon during the Vietnam War. After his military service, Walker began a long and distinguished career at Wright State University. He was considered an expert in constitutional law.

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Birth Control

Birth control is a way by which pregnancy from sexual intercourse can be prevented. Communication about birth control has not always received First Amendment protection.

Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969)

In Brandenburg v. Ohio (1969), the Court ruled that speech advocating illegal conduct is protected by the First Amendment unless it is likely to incite “imminent lawless action.”

Dennis v. United States (1951)

Dennis v. United States (1951) applied the First Amendment clear and present danger test to uphold the convictions of U.S.-based communists for their political teachings.

Osborne v. Ohio (1990)

Osborne v. Ohio (1990) established that the First Amendment right to free speech did not forbid states from enforcing laws against private possession of child pornography.

Robert Mapplethorpe

Photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, who gained notoriety for his explicit images, was posthumously a central figure in a First Amendment clash over art and obscenity.

Satire

Although it frequently comes under legal attack, satire, which humorously mocks and scorns individuals and political practices, is protected speech under the First Amendment.