Written by: Paige Henze 

Samantha Barbas, professor at the University of Iowa College of Law and Aliber Family Chair in Law, recently received national recognition for her latest book, Hate Speech: The Legal and Cultural History of an American Dilemma, in a review published by The Progressive on Oct. 14, 2026. 

In the review, titled "On Banning Hate Speech", writer JP O'Malley highlights Barbas examination of the legal and cultural history of hate speech in the United States, describing her work as "an impressive tour of modern American history."

The book explores how debates over hate speech have shaped First Amendment protections and examines alternatives to government censorship, including counter speech and public education.

Barbas specializes in legal history, First Amendment law, and media law. Her research examines the relationship between law, history, and freedom of expression.

Read the full review in The Progressive.