Rational Realm

Are There Limits on the Right to Free Speech?


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In this episode, Martin Coleman and Akiva Quinn debate the extent to which the law ought to limit free speech and free expression in order to prevent significant harms. Martin Coleman puts the case for free speech and free expression that forms the basis for an informed populace. Martin turns to such great writers as Voltaire, Christopher Hitchens, Thomas Paine and Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. in defence of the claim that no matter how great or abhorrent an idea is, the ability to share and discuss it is the pinnacle of modern democracy. Alternately, Akiva Quinn argues for restrictions on speech and expression that incite violence and is likely to lead to significant harms. In such cases, he argues, the clear and present dangers from this expression means that such 'free speech' does not warrant protection under the law as the harms to individuals or groups outweighs any benefit from unlimited freedom to express sentiments without regard for the predictable consequences.

Credit to https://www.FesliyanStudios.com for the background music.

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Rational RealmBy Leslie Allan