Free Speech.

[Atheist]

It sounds a good idea. But should there be limits on what is allowed by law? Please think hard before replying.

[JimF]

Under Article 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998, “everyone has the right to freedom of expression” in the UK. The law goes on to say that this freedom “may be subject to formalities, conditions, restrictions or penalties as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society."

What more do you need to know?

[Atheist]

My own view is that Free Speech should be subordinate to other societal values. For instance, there are people who would advocate execution of gay people or infidel people or doctors who carry out abortions. I don't think that they should be allowed to advocate such measures.

[JimF]

They aren't.

[brian j john]

speak your mind but mind how you speak

[Atheist]

jimf; I think they are in some countries; usually countries which have religious governments. brian j john has it right, but it needs laws to make it legally right.

[Canary42]

The "Free Speech" claim, like the "It's a Free Country" claim, need to be regulated by law.

For example frequently the claimants using the latter case really mean,"freedom of the powerful to rip everybody else off", which is IMHO unacceptable.

But the regulating laws need to be reasonable of course, and that's where controversy inevitably arises, especially when the religious nutters have any influence (e.g. Sunday trading in England).

[douglas9401]

Why do I get the feeling I'm being scolded from a great height?

[dannyk13]

Douglas //AWhy do I get the feeling I'm being scolded from a great height?//
Guilty feeling?