Details

Title: Mass Comm Law

Description: Supreme Court Theories

Total Flash Cards: 7

Created: 09/16/2009 12:53:23

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Cards in this set:

Term
Absolutist Theory
Definition
the First Amendment presents a complete barrier against government censorship of speech or press

-foundation of this theory is that the government should not censor the press for any reason

-few justices subscribe to this theory
Term
Ad Hoc Theory
Definition
when freedom of expression conflicts with other important rights it is up to the government to balance which right is more important in the case.

-allows justices to make decisions on a case-by-case basis, considering all of the information involved in that particular case
Term
Preferred Position Balancing Theory
Definition
First Amendment freedoms are fundamental to a free society and entitled to more judicial protection than other constitutional values

-this is essentially Ad hoc theory with the First Amendment on top.
Term
Meiklejohnian Theory
Definition
free expression is protected as a means to an end - self-governance

-free expression=democracy; without free expression there is no chance of a democracy
Term
Marketplace of Ideas theory
Definition
all ideas and opinions must be expressed and weighted to have true enlightenment.

-this is the idea of putting the information out there and allowing each person to use their critical thinking skills to determine what opinions/information is correct for them.
Term
Access theory
Definition
true freedom belongs to those with the resources (usually monetary) to express themselves.

-the metaphorical marketplace of ideas is skewed to those who have the highest economic resources

-this could cause justices to rule in favor of those with the resources or against, depending on their worldview
Term
Self-realization theory
Definition
expression is valuable to a person, regardless of its effect on others