"Prologue To a Farce?" A Historical Perspective on the AIPAC Case and the Applicability of the Espionage Act to Journalists

Authors

Peter Shapiro, Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law

Abstract

The note argues that the expansion of the Espionage Act of 1917 to prosecute private citizens, as seen in the AIPAC case, poses a significant threat to press freedom and democratic governance. This shift marks a dangerous precedent, as it potentially criminalizes activities protected by the First Amendment, such as journalism, and undermines the balance between national security and the public's right to know.

Disciplines

Communications Law | Constitutional Law | First Amendment | Law

Recommended Citation

Peter Shapiro, "Prologue To a Farce?" A Historical Perspective on the AIPAC Case and the Applicability of the Espionage Act to Journalists, 6 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 237 (2007).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol6/iss1/9