Which of the following rights is protected by the First Amendment?

The First Amendment of the United States Constitution is primarily focused on protecting fundamental freedoms related to expression and participation in democratic governance. Among these protections, freedom of speech is a cornerstone. This right ensures that individuals can express their thoughts, ideas, and opinions without fear of government censorship or punishment. The significance of this protection lies in its role in fostering an open dialogue in society, allowing for the exchange of diverse viewpoints and facilitating a healthy democracy.

In contrast, the other rights mentioned—such as the right to bear arms, the right to a fair trial, and the right to privacy—are protected under different amendments. The right to bear arms is addressed by the Second Amendment, the right to a fair trial is covered by several amendments, including the Sixth Amendment, and the right to privacy is inferred from various amendments though it is not explicitly stated in the Constitution. Therefore, freedom of speech distinctly stands out as a direct and explicit protection offered by the First Amendment.