Having the Freedom of Expression Doesn’t Mean What You’re Thinking or Feeling Should Be Expressed
Having the right to do something doesn’t mean you should
Freedom is a cornerstone of any meaningful, prosperous society. Take away freedom and you’re essentially in prison. Do you want to live in a prison? I certainly don’t, and that’s why you can count me among those who believe in freedom. That includes the freedom of expression.
I agree with Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo who said:
“Freedom of expression is the foundation of human rights, the source of humanity, and the mother of truth.”
Must there be some limitations on expression? Yes, but those limitations should be seen as a necessary evil — emphasis on the latter. And such restrictions should be rare.
Very rare.
If we’re to err, let us err on the side of freedom.
That being said…
While I support freedom of expression, this doesn’t mean that individuals (or tribes, groups, crowds, or movements) shouldn’t exercise self-restraint.
Freedom shouldn’t lead to a lack of self-control.
