In this talk, ARI director of legal studies Steve Simpson puts the recent attacks on free speech in a wider cultural context, and analyzes the ideas and arguments that are used to undermine the public’s understanding and appreciation of the freedom of speech.
How should courts interpret the law? Strictly according to the text? By lawmakers’ original intent? By the needs of today’s society? Philosophical ideals? In this talk, Tara Smith, professor of philosophy and BB&T Chair for the Study of Objectivism at the University of Texas at Austin, argues that the best laws in the world are useless if misunderstood.