Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The main goal of the book is to disaggregate hate speech law into different clusters of laws/regulations/codes that constrain uses of hate speech, so as to facilitate a more accurate and nuanced examination of the principled arguments. The book argues that Waldron's approach falls short of N-warranting protection for resident non-citizens and people who are incapable of exercising the trappings of legal status-but it might be thought that both groups of people are in particular need of protection from hate speech. It discusses a recent debate between Waldron and Ronald Dworkin over the compatibility of hate speech law and political legitimacy. The book provides a good starting position, as opposed to an endpoint, for normative evaluation of hate speech law. It focuses on principled arguments about hate speech law that relate to cultural diversity and choice, recognition of cultural identity, and intercultural dialogue.