Structure

This work begins with a short introduction, followed by six chapters. The chapters are generally chronological, but are primarily arranged around certain themes. Abrams describes the origins and development of the First Amendment throughout American history, then shifts to contemporary issues and foreign comparisons. Within each chapter, Abrams relies heavily on comparisons to advance his arguments. The author presents differing historical interpretations of the First Amendment through Supreme Court decisions, allowing the reader to understand the practical effects of these decisions on normal political activities. For each case, he describes the legal arguments and precedents cited in each decisions, demonstrating in their own words how jurists viewed the First Amendment. Abrams uses a similar structure in comparing the United States to foreign countries. He explains how comparable events, such as the publishing of a controversial book, were treated differently by each country’s judicial system. Again, the...