If we take away the rights of:
-Fred Phelps
-Nazis
-NAMBLA
-Jerry Falwell
-Pat Robertson
would that mean that the freedom of ALL speech is at risk?
2006-09-28 15:11:57 · 7 answers · asked by Tofu Jesus 5 in Politics & Government ➔ Politics
Yep...free speech means that everybody gets to say what they think...even Mel Gibson and John Rocker have the right to say whatever they want.
Free speech is never having to say you're sorry.
2006-09-28 15:15:53 · answer #1 · answered by KERMIT M 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not necessarily. For example NAMBLA, if you pass a child protection law regarding free speech it would not at all effect Pat Robertson. I've never been a big fan of the "slippery slope" theory. If a law pertains to one particular instance it does not pertain to anything else. A new debate and a new law would have to be passed. Not to say, I personally, am against any form of free speech. Most people aren't in this country.
2006-09-28 22:15:46 · answer #2 · answered by MEL T 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. But it isn't a slippery slope, more like a greased ramp. Just because we don't like what someone says, doesn't mean we should ban it. Speech is more about free exchange of ideas, and opinions. Did you know that in many places in Europe, it's against the law to even point at your own head in the view of another automobile driver? Crazy.
2006-09-28 22:22:22 · answer #3 · answered by notme 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Slander, yelling fire in a crowded theater, false advertising, having to have a license to transmit RF signals, pump and dump, hate crimes, not being allowed to burn a cross, cannot distribute pornography to children, cannot say prayers in school, and so on.
Free speech is already limited. Any idiot can see this. I have to admit that I'm tired of simple-minded people thinking that the only good thing in life is freedom of speech.
Ensuring our freedoms is a part of the purpose of the government.
2006-09-28 22:17:37 · answer #4 · answered by something 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. Freedom of speech is the FIRST amendment to the constitution. If it gets taken away, then what's going to stop them from banning everything questionable and turning us into a dictatorship (not to mention how it is illegal).
2006-09-28 22:19:40 · answer #5 · answered by desert_falcon932 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
" Freedom of speech", is one the constitutional rights for all free-loving people and should be guarded at all costs!!
Having said that, "words" on the other hand should be guarded, and tempered with respect for other peoples rights, and beliefs.
You do not have to agree with them, but you must fight for THEIR right to say them......or all is lost, including your own!!
2006-09-28 22:29:44 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
How about Gays in the Military?
2006-09-28 22:13:57 · answer #7 · answered by BigScotter 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋