What do public safety concerns often cite regarding unprotected speech?

Public safety concerns around unprotected speech primarily focus on the idea that such speech can incite violence and disrupt public order. This understanding is grounded in the principle that certain types of speech—like hate speech or incitement to violence—pose a real threat to the safety and well-being of individuals and communities. The law recognizes that when speech crosses the line into incitement or poses an immediate threat, it can be restricted to protect public safety and maintain social order.

The justification for this stance is rooted in historical contexts where speech has led to riots, violence, or other forms of societal disruption. The courts often evaluate whether the speech in question presents a clear and present danger that could lead to harmful consequences, allowing for these types of speech to be categorized as unprotected. This protection of public safety underscores the balance that must be maintained between freedom of expression and the rights of individuals to be free from harm or chaos instigated by speech.