Freedom of Speech or Free Speech?

Freedom of Speech - the political right to communicate one's opinions and ideas to anyone who is willing to receive them.

The limitations on speech relate to: libel, slander, obscenity, pornography, sedition, hate speech, incitement, fighting words, classified information, copyright violation, trade secrets, non-disclosure agreements, right to privacy, right to be forgotten, public security, public order, public nuisance, and campaign finance reform. These limitations are to prohibit forms of expression where they are considered offensive to society, special interest groups or individuals.

Article 19 of the  Universal Declaration of Human Rights, states that "everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference and have the right to freedom of expression."

"I do not agree with what you have to say, but I'll defend to the death your right to say it" - Voltaire.

 So it isn't a clear cut, "one size fits all", right.

I am constrained, in what I say to or about anyone, by honesty, a desire not to hurt, embarrass or offend them and a general politeness learned in my upbringing and experience of life. In a reasonably civilised society, which values each individual despite their difference to oneself, we should exhibit tolerance and respect.

I think we have now reached the point where we confuse freedom of speech with free speech. The latter meaning that anyone has the right to say anything about anything whenever & wherever they want, regardless of it's veracity or likely impact. That isn't a society I want to live in.

Words can do harm & even kill as shown graphically this week. People are hurt by what others say about them. Occasionally people even commit suicide when they have been verbally abused & bullied. Do we have the right to mock & belittle? Do we have the right to score points against someone or something to amuse others & gain some sort of status?

I don't condone the terrible acts of murder this week. Nothing justifies any of it. I am horrified and sad for everyone affected.

But, I think we should all consider a little more & say a little less. In other words adhere to that old adage "think before you speak".