Why do Americans go so far to protect freedom of speech and then compain when some1 uses that right in public?

Question

Or even on this site. I just saw a question on George Bush and one person didn't like the question and simply answered "REPORTED!". I really would like serious please.

Answer 1

Probably because too often what they say is completely stupid or offensive. Freedom of speech also covers the right to criticize someone else's exercise of free speech. So go ahead and speak your mind but be prepared for feedback.

Answer 2

I think people need to understand that "freedom of speech" is protected, but I have seen at least two individuals on Yahoo Answers posing questions about the assassination of President Bush, which I would guess we would or at least should all disagree with. Not to mention that it is illegal to threaten the President of the United States, no matter who it is or what party he or she represents. I think we all need to remember Freedom of Speech is a right and rights come with some responsibility. Thanks

Answer 3

If you don't like what people say it is your right to disagree with them. We are all different. If you don't agree with someone you have the right to say this. I think the ones who scream "REPORTED" are the ones who need to get a life. They are the ones who will go to a protest, so they can say they were there. I guess, now this is only a guess, so those of you who will scream "REPORTED" maybe you should find a good Charity to spend all of that energy you have on, maybe a Homeless Shelter,or a Free store for people who do not have as much as you. Only a thought.

Answer 4

Because people use the freedom of speech to offend others. There is not a single opinion or idea that can't be shared in a respectful, intelligent, mature manner; even the most controversial issue. People need to learn how to communicate in a mature manner.

Answer 5

Those who went the distance are mostly dead now, old veterans from the WWII era. Those who never served their country are the same ones who now create divisions that become issues to argue 'for' or 'against'. Its a set-up and unless your aware of the manipulation thats going on you'd believe there was truly a civil war happening in America, but theres no battles in the street as these Karl Rove types want you to think.

Answer 6

I really don't know. I didn't realize it was that bad until the whole fiasco with the Dixie Chicks who were banned from playing at some events because they spoke out against G.W. It gave them lots of publicity though so maybe it's what they wanted but still, they shouldn't have gotten in **** for voicing their opinions (or anyone for that matter- i was just using these girls as an example- I really don't like them as singers).

Answer 7

I'm not sure, but that bugs me. People are all entitled to their own opinion and the freedom to share it w/o being jumped on or made to feel bad. But then ya have to think that the people that complain are also using their freedom of speech....

Answer 8

Because people are hypocrites. They want only to protect there form of free speech and silence everyone elses. Both liberals and conservatives are guilty of this. If you truly value free speech then you have to accept both sides of the arguement whether you agree with them or not.

Answer 9

There are some who can dish it out but can't take it. They want freedom of the speech for themselves, but they fail to remember they also the freedom to offer counterpoints and the freedom to simply ignore. Instead, they seek to silence those who don't agree with them. It's utopian arrogance.

Answer 10

Sure the person can say anything they want to. But I have every right to speak back with my opinions. The complaining and name calling is done only when the other side has nothing logical to fire back with. Which of course they have that right. But it makes them look even more stupid.