Overview

This collection brings together historians, political theorists and literary scholars to provide historical perspectives on the modern debate over freedom of speech, particularly the question of whether limitations might be necessary given religious pluralism and concerns about hate speech. It integrates religion into the history of free speech and rethinks what is sometimes regarded as a coherent tradition of more or less absolutist justifications for free expression. Contributors examine the aims and effectiveness of government policies, the sometimes contingent ways in which freedom of speech became a reality and a wide range of canonical and non-canonical texts in which contemporaries outlined their ideas and ideals. Overall, the book argues that while the period from 1500 to 1850 witnessed considerable change in terms of both ideas and practices, these were more or less distinct from those that characterise modern debates.

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9781526167064

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'[...] this is a hugely ambitious book that takes studies of freedom of speech forward in new and refreshing directions and is undoubtedly an addition to the literature worthy of close examination.' Parliaments, Estates & Representation 'this well-designed collection of original essays by first-rate scholars will appeal to anyone interested in the important and controversial history of free speech.' Diego Lucci, Journal of Ecclesiastical History -- .

Author Information

Robert G. Ingram is Professor of History at Ohio University Jason Peacey is Professor of Early Modern British History at University College London Alex W. Barber is Assistant Professor of Early Modern British History at Durham University

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