Which type of speech is not protected under the First Amendment?

The correct choice is fighting words. Fighting words are not protected under the First Amendment because they are deemed to incite immediate violence or breach of peace. This type of speech is characterized by its potential to provoke a violent reaction from the listener, which poses a clear and present danger to societal order.

In contrast, hate speech, political speech, and commercial speech are generally protected under the First Amendment, despite the discomfort or controversy they may generate. Hate speech is protected unless it incites violence or constitutes a true threat. Political speech is considered one of the core forms of expression guaranteed by the First Amendment. Commercial speech has some protection but can face regulation, especially if deemed misleading or related to illegal activity.

Thus, while fighting words lack First Amendment protection due to their immediate potential for harm, the other types of speech have varying levels of protection and are generally allowed, emphasizing the balance the law seeks to maintain between freedom of expression and public safety.