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What is freedom of speech?

Dan From Smithville

He who controls the spice controls the universe.
Staff member
Premium Member
What does it mean to you? Does it mean we can say whatever we want whenever we want to whomever we want wherever we want? Would that even be a good thing if it means that?

I don't know all the rules of other countries and do not want reference to the US to make you feel you are excluded. However, I am in the US and in this country freedom of speech is secured by the First Amendment of our Constitution. But what does that really mean?

Does freedom of speech mean there are no consequences to our words?

Do you think a platform that allowed the unfettered commentary about anything in any form would be conducive of fruitful discussion?

I have my own ideas about freedom of speech, but I am curious what others think. Especially in light of recent events regarding disinformation (Russia, politics, Homeland Security) and claims that we will see new ways to express ourselves freely on the internet (Elon Musk).
 

Twilight Hue

Twilight, not bright nor dark, good nor bad.
If a person has that much fear from speech, then a free country is not for that person.
 

Dan From Smithville

He who controls the spice controls the universe.
Staff member
Premium Member
Does freedom of speech mean guaranteed listeners? Does it guarantee us a platform? Does it mean we are forced to listen to someone exercise their freedom? Is not listening, dissenting or setting up rules limiting freedom of speech under certain conditions wrong?
 

beenherebeforeagain

Rogue Animist
Premium Member
I think that it was a great disservice to enshrine the rights in the constitution without highlighting that with each right comes with associated responsibilities...for example, to be fair, to be considerate, to let others have their say as well, and so on. Obviously, there can be discussion about those responsibilities. But in my opinion, no right exists without associated responsibilities.
 

Dan From Smithville

He who controls the spice controls the universe.
Staff member
Premium Member
I think that it was a great disservice to enshrine the rights in the constitution without highlighting that with each right comes with associated responsibilities...for example, to be fair, to be considerate, to let others have their say as well, and so on. Obviously, there can be discussion about those responsibilities. But in my opinion, no right exists without associated responsibilities.
That is an excellent point. Often I hear or read about people screaming about their rights, but not one word about their responsibilities. The same thought occurs to me as you point out here.
 

Dan From Smithville

He who controls the spice controls the universe.
Staff member
Premium Member
Look at Trump as an example. People are censoring him left and right out of fear and spite.
Are you confusing dissent with censorship or the free exercise of speaking opinions you don't like as a form of censorship?

It appears you did not give up as you said. Glad to see it.
 

Twilight Hue

Twilight, not bright nor dark, good nor bad.
Are you confusing dissent with censorship or the free exercise of speaking opinions you don't like as a form of censorship?

It appears you did not give up as you said. Glad to see it.
If you censor people you don't like just because of their political views or religious views or what-not it opens up a venue to censor others that follow.

That mechanism is what dictatorships and authoritarians use.
 

Dan From Smithville

He who controls the spice controls the universe.
Staff member
Premium Member
If you censor people you don't like just because of their political views or religious views or what-not it opens up a venue to censor others that follow.

That mechanism is what dictatorships and authoritarians use.
Sure. If governments do that. But can I come into your home and start a speech degrading someone you care for and respect? After all, I have freedom of speech and you don't have a right to stop me. Or do you?
 
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