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Full Idea
The free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of man's most precious rights. Every citizen may therefore speak, write, and publish freely; except that he shall be responsible for the abuse of that freedom in cases determined by law.
Gist of Idea
Free speech is very precious, and everyone may speak and write freely (but take responsibility for it)
Source
Mirabeau and committee (Declaration of the Rights of Man [1789], 11)
Book Ref
'Les Philosophes', ed/tr. Torrey,Norman L. [Perigee 1980], p.286
A Reaction
Wonderful, and very nicely expressed. Tom Paine will have been a huge influence on this clause.
| 19855 | The purpose of society is to protect the rights of liberty, property, security and resistance [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19857 | All citizens are eligible for roles in the state, purely on the basis of merit [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19856 | The law expresses the general will, and all citizens can participate [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19858 | No one should be molested for their opinions, if they do not disturb the established order [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19859 | Free speech is very precious, and everyone may speak and write freely (but take responsibility for it) [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19860 | Everyone must contribute to the state's power and administration, in just proportion [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19861 | There is only a constitution if rights are assured, and separation of powers defined [Mirabeau/committee] |
| 19862 | Property is a sacred right, breached only when essential, and with fair compensation [Mirabeau/committee] |