Home
Glossary
C
Clear And Present Danger

What Is Clear and Present Danger?

Clear and present danger is a standard established by the United States Supreme Court to determine under what circumstances limitations can be placed on First Amendment freedoms of speech, press, or assembly.

The doctrine holds that the government can interfere with speech if the speech poses a significant and imminent threat to a government interest that is substantial.

Clear and Present Danger Explained

This doctrine was first articulated in the case of Schenck v. United States in 1919, involving the distribution of anti-draft pamphlets during World War I. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., in his opinion for the Court, famously used the phrase "clear and present danger" to describe when limits on speech might be justified.

The idea is that freedom of speech does not extend to inciting actions that would harm the nation's security or public safety. Over time, the application of this standard has evolved, with the Supreme Court developing more nuanced tests to evaluate restrictions on speech.

Clear and Present Danger in Different Legal Contexts

While primarily arising within the context of free speech and national security, the principle of "clear and present danger" can be interpreted and applied in various legal scenarios:

First Amendment Cases: The most direct application involves speech that may incite violence or pose a significant threat to public safety, requiring a balancing act between freedom of expression and protecting the community.

Employment Law: In situations where an employee's speech or actions pose a direct threat to the safety of others or to critical operational functions, employers might invoke a similar rationale to justify disciplinary actions or termination.

Education Law: Schools and universities may face scenarios where the principle of clear and present danger is relevant, particularly in determining when student speech or behavior warrants restriction or disciplinary measures to ensure safety and order within educational settings.

Digital and Cyber Law: As online communication and social media evolve, the concept of clear and present danger may be explored in contexts involving cyber threats, online harassment, or incitement to violence, challenging traditional interpretations of the doctrine.

In each of these contexts, the application of these principles—litigation, unjust enrichment, and clear and present danger—demonstrates the flexibility and adaptability of legal doctrines to address a broad spectrum of issues across the diverse landscape of law.

Common Misconceptions About the Meaning of Clear and Present Danger

One common misconception is that the "clear and present danger" test is a broad principle that applies to all forms of speech or expression. In reality, it is a specific legal standard that has been applied and interpreted in various ways over time, particularly in cases involving national security and public safety.

Another misunderstanding is that this doctrine allows for the censorship of speech based on its content alone. However, the focus is on the potential immediate consequences of the speech, not merely its content.

Recommendations

0 reviews

Drew Davis Van De Grift

Contracts and Agreements Lawyer Serving at Birmingham - Michigan

1895 Bradford Rd, Michigan, 48009-7253

Thomas M. Cooley
Contracts and Agreements, Freedom of Information Act, Government Contracts, Employment and Labor, State, Local And Municipal Law, Government and Tax
Birmingham, Michigan Contracts and Agreements Lawyer

Free Consultation

+12486353360

What Is Clear and Present Danger?

Clear and Present Danger Explained

Clear and Present Danger in Different Legal Contexts

Common Misconceptions About the Meaning of Clear and Present Danger

Share

Need legal help after an accident?

Relevant Legal Professionals

Recommendations

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jul 05,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jul 03,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jul 02,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jul 08,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jul 08,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jun 15,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jun 14,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jun 13,2024

Written by Michael Anderson

UPDATED Jun 11,2024

Log in to your account

Contact