Question

Read this excerpt from the Huffington Post article "Supreme Court Ruling – Violent Video Games," in which Justice Thomas states his opinion on the decision, and answer the question.

The practices and beliefs of the founding generation establish that ‘the freedom of speech,’ as originally understood, does not include a right to speak to minors (or a right of minors to access speech) without going through the minors’ parents of guardians. Which statement from the article "Free Speech Versus Violent Video Games" best supports Thomas’s belief that the California law does NOT violate a freedom of speech under the U.S. Constitution? "...video games — which the Entertainment Software Association says are played in 68 percent of American households — are protected forms of expression under the First Amendment to the Constitution." The proposed California video law "does not ban parents from purchasing or buying the video games for their children." The Federal Trade Commission studies suggest "that the video game industry’s rating system was not effective in blocking minors from purchasing games designed for adults." "The video game industry also argues that approval of California’s video game restrictions could open the door for states to limit minor’s access to other material on the grounds of protecting children."

What is the meaning of the word dissented as it is used in this sentence?
1. differed in belief
2. drew attention
3. tried to learn
4. backed away

Answer 1

The meaning of the word 'dissented' in the given sentence is 'differed in belief.' referring to his disagreement with the majority decision.

Step-by-step explanation:

The meaning of the word "dissented" in the given sentence is differed in belief. In this context, Justice Thomas is expressing his disagreement with the opinion that the freedom of speech includes a right to speak to minors without parental involvement. By stating that the founding generation did not view freedom of speech as including a right to speak to minors without parental consent, Justice Thomas is presenting his differing opinion on the matter.

The statement from the article "Free Speech Versus Violent Video Games" that best supports Justice Thomas's belief that the California law does not violate freedom of speech under the U.S. Constitution is: "The proposed California video law 'does not ban parents from purchasing or buying the video games for their children.'" This statement aligns with Justice Thomas's opinion because it emphasizes the role of parents or guardians in controlling minors' access to speech, which is consistent with the historical understanding of the First Amendment during the founding generation. The word dissented, as used in the sentence, means 'differed in belief'. It reflects the context where Justice Thomas disagreed with the majority's decision that the California law was unconstitutional, asserting instead his view that it did not contravene the freedom of speech protections.