The freedom of speech in the constitution protects you from government persecution. But the idea is bigger than the constitution. I think it is best expressed

The freedom of speech in the constitution protects you from government persecution. But the idea is bigger than the constitution. I think it is best expressed in The Friends of Voltaire: "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it". This is a deep idea. I think it is virtuous. Silence no ideas.