Do some types of speech deserve more protection than others?

It is tempting to write a politically correct answer to that and say that opinions that are offensive to other persons or groups should be less deserving of protection. But the US Supreme Court very wisely has held that freedom of speech also encompasses opinions that others - including the authorities - may not like to hear or see. Why? Because the freedom of only non-offensive and politically correct speech and opinion can be said to exist in Russia and even North Korea.

Speech that is only insulting, inciting to violence etcetera may be free, but is also covered by other laws and jurisdiction. So if for instance your expressed opinion is also a defamation of character, the insulted party or parties may sue you for considerable damages.