I think the most un-American thing you can say is, 'You can't say that.'
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Censorship or silencing speech is viewed as fundamentally un-American.
- In plain terms
- Telling someone they can't say something is un-American.
- What can you take from it?
- Protect free speech at all costs.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is there speech that should be banned?
- How much freedom is enough?
Another view
Some speech is limited by laws or safety concerns.
More from Garrison Keillor
(on sweet corn and sex) I love sweet corn. It truly is better than sex! I'm not lying! All across the Midwest tonight, a husband and wife will finish what husb…
Permalink to quote #21 I want to resume the life of a shy person.
Permalink to quote #23 I believe in looking reality straight in the eye and denying it.
Permalink to quote #20
Related quotes
Restriction of free thought and free speech is the most dangerous of all subversions. It is the one un-American act that could most easily defeat us.
William O. DouglasWilliam O. Douglas quote #10 There is one tradition in America I am proud to inherit. It is our first freedom and the truest expression of our Americanism: the ability to dissent without f…
Natalie MerchantNatalie Merchant quote #1 We are creating a world where anyone, anywhere may express his or her beliefs, no matter how singular, without fear of being coerced into silence or conformity…
John Perry BarlowJohn Perry Barlow quote #9