This is a fully revised and updated new edition of the classic work first published in 1985. There have been many important developments since the first edition including the impact of the European Human Rights Convention. Social and cultural changes mean that free speech claims are being made in novel contexts. Barendt considers the meaning and scope of freedom of speech and examines the varied approaches of different legal systems and constitutional traditions to balancing free speech and freedom of the press against rights to reputation and privacy, and to copyright.