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Freedom of Speech Does NOT Include Hate Speech.

Day 649, 20:59 • Published in Ireland Ireland

• by Edana Savage

I think there is some confusion as to what Freedom of Speech really is.

Freedom of speech is the freedom to speak freely without censorship or limitations. However, this does not mean that there are not exceptions. Hate speech is one such exception.

Hate speech is anything that disparages a person or a group of people based on their social or ethnic group such as gender, sexual orientation, race, age, disability, ethnicity, nationality, religion, appearence, etc.

There has been a lot of discussion about putting legislation into place that would address the issue of Hate Speech. Now I know some of you have expressed concerns that our legislators might go too far and infringe on that right. From what I have seen in the forums and the comments on various articles, I don't think this will be the case.

The proposals so far need a bit more work, but I think they are heading in the right direction. The ones I have read so far are Jebbs original proposal and a proposal written by Brian Boru. You can find them on the eIreland National Forum.

http://ieforums.hobbittown.com/default.aspx?g=posts&m=2210post2210

I am all for Free Speech, but I cannot and will not tolerate Hate Speech. It speaks of cowardice, ignorance, and malice. Everything that the Irish are not. We are not a people of hate! And we shouldn't tolerate it. It is never ok to disrespect another human being even when you disagree with them.

And if you insist on continuing to spew such venom then there will be consequences.

So which are you? One of the cowards who hide behind their ignorance and narrow world views? Or are you one who treats all with respect and dignity even if you don't agree with them?

And if you are one who treats others with respect and dignity, but condone those who don't are you really much better than they are?

Comments

Donovan Thomas Day 649, 21:27

Well Said, Bravo!

Octavius Dryst Day 649, 21:34

First let me say I enjoy the style with which you write. It flows well, something I appreciate when trying to read through all the available info this game has.

I have mentioned my feelings on this issue before in an article I wrote. However I think, considering recent input on your part and of others, I should re-affirm my position.

I am all for civility and decency among eIrish citizens. But I firmly support our right to be complete and utter scum should we choose to do so. It would seem that is the only way to route out the weak minded and those that lack of any ethical values among us. I do not support these improper actions at all, but I support the freedom to choose them. Given that social ridicule will serve as proper justice to any offender. Perhaps I place too much faith in the good nature of the eIrish citizens as a group. But I would like to think we can all stand strong against ruthless acts of social aggression.

Organized harassment though I think can and should be regulated. Specific, disproportionate attacks on subjects other than those that can be quantified and examined, as an example financial scandals, should be sent to the courts to be examined in which a ruling of vindication will be issued to one group or another. Though little in the way of compensation a negative word from the courts should strongly influence public opinion on any offending actor.

This article is a fine example of what should happen when an individual crosses the line in a social context. Public ridicule is our best weapon, use it as wisely as Edana has and we will rid ourselves of the worthless individuals that inhabit our fair isle. However I do not feel that legislation on anything than the organized harassment described above is proper.

Cun-Bo-Dawex Day 649, 21:46

Nice article, but technically free speech includes everything including hate speech, but that does not mean that there should be any mention of it

Grainne Ni Mhaille Day 649, 23:47

I shall bite my lip on this one.
Though I've much to say.

Mannimarco Day 650, 02:34

If we're not people of hate we shouldn't have to force people to abide by this law, but w/e

ImperatorI Day 650, 04:02

You are a person of hate though. 😛

Pip Kelly Day 650, 10:36

I agree with Imperatorl

Edana Savage Day 650, 19:18

I never said a person could never hate. It's far better than apathy. Apathy is deadly.

But hate speech is a whole differnt thing entirely. Don't you think?

William Macairt Day 650, 20:41

My freedom of speech doesn't end where your ears begin!

William Macairt Day 650, 20:41

Down with censorship!!!

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