Question

When would the government be allowed to limit what people say?

Answer 1

Answer:

  When it has a clear intention of provoking violence.

Explanation:

  Freedom of speech is one of the most important rights a democracy must have to be considered a good one. But this not mean that everyone can say what it wants about others. If you say a lie there will be consequences. The right supports the freedom of a person or a community to articulate their ideas or opinions without fear of retaliation.

  Nevertheless, the importance that this right has for democracy, there are some limitations to it. Particularly when the right enters in conflict with other rights and freedoms. If you give a public speech supporting the murder of a person or community you will be committing a crime and therefore the government would have the power to limit your sayings.

  I hope this answer helps you.

Answer 2

Occasionally, a government sees itself as being justified in limiting what people say in times of emergency, since they think that free speech during such times can harm the country.