A survey of attitudes toward the First Amendment conducted in early 2000 shows how conflicted Americans are toward the right to free speech. The First Amendment Center, an organization that works to protect freedom of expression, found in a poll of 1,015 adults that while a majority of Americans accept the ideal of freedom of speech in theory, they are less likely to accept free speech in reality. The survey found that many Americans favor restrictions on speech, especially on speech that is offensive to some groups.

According to the survey, 67 percent of those polled believe remarks offensive to racial groups should be prohibited, and 53 percent believe offensive speech directed at religious groups should be banned. In addition, a slight majority of 51 percent thinks that offensive art should not be shown in a public place. Another 74 percent would prohibit people from...