Just as the right to speak and the right to refrain from speaking are complementary components of a broader concept of individual freedom of mind, so also the individual’s freedom to choose his own creed is the counterpart of his right to refrain from accepting the creed established by the majority.

John Paul Stevens (1920-2019) American lawyer, US Supreme Court Justice (1975-2010)
Wallace v. Jaffree, 472 U.S. 38 (1985) [Majority Opinion]

Full ruling.

 
Added on 28-Apr-08 | Last updated 16-Jul-13
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