The 'Free to Speak' debate from New York is on the topic Is it ever right to limit free speech?


Listen to part one of the debate from New York

Listen to part two of the debate from New York


Is the media truly free? What restricts journalists?

The principle of free speech is enshrined in the First Amendment of the US Constitution.

It says "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances".

How does the notion of free speech work in practice in the 21st century?

• Judith Miller, former New York Times journalist


• Professor Catharine MacKinnon, lawyer, academic and anti-pornography campaigner


• John Walsh, libel lawyer in Wall Street


• Floyd Abrams, visiting professor in first amendment law at Columbia University