Are you PRO FREEDOM OF SPEECH regardless of where?

Question

If you are I am sure you would be willing to run through the airport shouting "BoomShak-a-Lak-a in protest.

Ok, so no BoomShak-a-lak-a.
But how about a casual joke with the screeners. It is announced that you may be arrested it you tell a joke over the P.A.
Hey I didnt go through this much security coming thru East Berlin.
Seems like a little bit of overkill.
You know, too much security here, not enough there etc.etc.

Answer 1

As a speech communication major, this topic is a hot one in many circles. The question or point of law that has been debated by many in the courts and academia is what responsibility does an individual assume when making a speech and what legal jeopardy attaches when a speaker has "crossed the line"? All the way back to Gitlow v US in 1919 up to now both the state and federal courts have flip-flopped on what constitutes free speech, and so-called "freedom of expression" (is it offensive for a government building to display the confederate flag, for instance).I personally believe that any speaker has legal, moral, and ethical responosibilities to consider when making a speech and where they make the speech. A nazi sympathizer has no need to make anti-Jewish or pro-Hitler speeches in Skokie, Illinois-period. Why do some people say really ignorant things in a public place where alot of people are gathered? I certainly haven't ruled out stupidity.

Answer 2

How would shouting "BoomShak-a-Lak-a" prove my dedication to free speech.

Part of the any right is the responsibilty to apply it intelligently.

Too many people demand their rights, and have no idea what they are talking about.

If you feel the need to run through an airport shouting incoherrent crap... then by all means, go for it. It won't prove that you are for or against freedom of speech. It will simply prove that you don't understand the responsibilty of exercising your rights.

Enjoy.

Answer 3

The only things you are not allowed to say are statements are that cause a dangerous environment for the surrounding citizens or property, and statements that are slanderous or malicious to others. I don't see anything wrong with that in a civilized society. An it is a hell of a lot more freedom than you get in other countries where you are imprisoned for saying anything to criticize the government.

Answer 4

I see where you're going here, but freedom of speech does NOT free everyone from responsibility. You're still responsible for any harm your words may cause, like yelling fire in a crowded theater. I think "bomb" in a crowded airport would fit this description as well.

Answer 5

I am pro freedom of speech but not "regardless of where" i think that freedom of speech is a good thing but if the people start leaking out secret information about the government that can harm us, then it is a bad thing.

Answer 6

No. I am NOT Pro-freedom of speech ANYWHERE.

Did you hear about that crazy group of radicals 'Westboro Baptist Church'?

They stage protests at military funerals, and scream insults to infuriate people.

I believe that those people should be shot on sight. So, no, I don't belive you should be able to say anything, anywhere.

Answer 7

I'm sorry but that is a very stupid question. Freedom of speech does not equate to pro idiocy.

Answer 8

There's a difference between freedom of speech and annoyance. The difference is my fist landing in your face if you annoy me.

Answer 9

And how would that support the idea of free speech "regardless of where?"

Answer 10

No. Certain things shouldn't be said in certain places.

On a plane:
'I have a bomb!' = bad
At an elementary school, in front of kindergartners:
'Suck my f***ing c*** you dumb*** b****' = bad
In a bank:
'I have a gun!'

These are not good for society. Explanation not necessary.