Single Idea 20009

[catalogued under 25. Social Practice / A. Freedoms / 3. Free speech]

Full Idea

If a state is to enjoy and preserve liberty, everyone must be able to say what he thinks. In a free state, therefore, a citizen may speak and write anything not expressly forbidden by the laws.

Gist of Idea

Freedom of speech and writing, within the law, is essential to preserve liberty

Source

Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 19.27)

Book Reference

Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.222


A Reaction

A commonplace now, but fairly bold then. I blame Freeborn John Lilburne for wild ideas like these.