Political Correctness, Free Speech, and Decency

Summary:
Letters to the editor of The Economist lay out the pros and cons of curbing free speech. Some views: Who is “just” offensive should not be prosecuted.  Insulting religious feelings is ok, but not at a place of worship. Freedom of speech for the purpose of debate needs to protected, but not if it is only “intended to insult or inflame passions.” Clark Kerr, president of the University of California (1958–1967), defended free speech on campus with the wordsThe university is not engaged in making ideas safe for students. It is engaged in making students safe for ideas. Thus it permits the freest expression of views before students, trusting to their good sense in passing judgment on these views. Only in this way can it best serve American democracy.

Topics:
Dirk Niepelt considers the following as important: Freedom, Freedom of expression, Notes, Political correctness

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