The True Beneficiaries of Freedom of Speech
Freedom of speech is often hailed as the cornerstone of a democratic society. However, has it always been a boon to everyone? Historically, those with power and authority have suppressed diverse voices, from the persecution of Galileo by the Catholic Church to the relentless criticism faced by Tesla from Edison. These examples underscore the critical role that freedom of speech plays in fostering intellectual and scientific progress.
Who Truly Benefits?
Ideally, individuals benefit from freedom of speech. The ability to voice your opinions and make a case before the law is fundamental to democracy. When you are not allowed to express your views, you are essentially excluded from the law-making process. This exclusion strips you of your democratic rights and essentially means you are not living in a true democracy.
While it is admirable to be actively involved in the development of laws, one should not overlook the practical realities of life. You have responsibilities and a life to live. Paying someone to handle these issues for you is a common arrangement. Elections are merely a hiring process, where you choose representatives to govern on your behalf, akin to having a lawyer to handle legal issues should they arise. This arrangement provides a sense of security and support.
The Exception: Those Who Seek to Subvert
Not everyone benefits from freedom of speech. In fact, some individuals or groups actively seek to subvert societal norms and order. Examples include extremist movements like Antifa and Black Lives Matter (BLM), as well as authoritarian leaders like Putin, who have historically or currently banned free speech.
Pavel Kilitov, a Russian blogger sentenced to six years in prison for stating on YouTube, 'The Russian people have the right to be free despite the Kremlin,' highlights the severe consequences faced by individuals who stand for free speech in repressive regimes. In Russia, you risk jail for championing free speech, while in territories like Ukraine under Russian occupation, the risks are even more dire. Individuals like Yanina Ivanovna Lubovska, a 14-year-old girl sentenced to two and a half years in prison for sending a message to her teacher criticizing the education system, exemplify the severe repercussions of free speech in these regions.
The Importance of Free Speech
Free speech is not confined to soapboxing on the street. It is a fundamental civil liberty that supports progress, innovation, and democratic participation. In Thailand, where freedom of speech is restricted, an American tourist was arrested for posting a negative hotel review on a travel website. This imposes an undue burden on individuals who simply want to share their experiences without fear of repercussions.
In the United States, on the other hand, such actions are protected. The right to voice an opinion, even if negative, ensures that potential tourists are informed about their experiences. This protection of free speech among taxpayers and other individuals is crucial for a democratic society.
Why Certain Extremists Want to Ban Free Speech
Some extremists, whether it is Antifa, BLM, or Putin, seek to ban free speech. Antifa and BLM have been known to use force and intimidation, often acting outside the law to silence opposing voices. In contrast, Putin has employed legal means to restrict free speech in Russia, often through the manipulation of laws.
Vladimir Putin has enacted numerous laws that suppress free speech and dissent in Russia, including those that target online media, political opponents, and even the free press. These laws have made it easier to detain individuals like Pavel Kilitov for expressing opinions deemed critical of the government. In the occupied territories in Ukraine, the situation is even more dire, where individuals face imprisonment or other forms of harassment for standing up for free speech.
The irony lies in the fact that Putin’s actions are often cloaked in legal terms, making it difficult for the international community to hold him accountable. This manipulation of legal processes has created a chilling effect on free speech in Russia and occupied territories.
Conclusion
Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of a democratic society. It benefits individuals but can inadvertently harm those who seek to subvert democratic norms. As a society, we must remain vigilant and protect this crucial civil liberty, even as we acknowledge its potential downsides. The fight for free speech is not limited to public protests or soapboxing; it is a continuous struggle to ensure that everyone is able to express their opinions and participate in the democratic process without fear of retribution.