Just how conservative or pro-business the Roberts Court is continues to generate debate. But on one subject, the trend line is undeniable: a strong majority favors classic First Amendment protection for even the most objectionable speech.
The U.S. Supreme Court capped its 2010-11 term on Monday with the latest landmark on that path: Brown v. Entertainment Merchants Association, striking down in no uncertain terms a 2005 California law barring the sale of violent video games to minors. It follows decisions within the last 14 months on laws restricting depictions of animal cruelty and on virulent protests at military funerals.
