Question

Which of these is least likely to be protected by the First Amendment because it creates an immediate threat to public safety?

shouting "FIRE!" as a prank in a crowded movie theater
writing an opinion article criticizing government policies
wearing a political button to work at a private firm
peacefully protesting a government policy in a public park

Answer 1

Shouting "FIRE!" as a prank in a crowded movie theater.

Reason: falsely yelling fire in a crowded space creates an immediate risk of panic and physical injury, so it falls outside First Amendment protection under the "clear and present danger"/imminent harm and incitement doctrines.