On October 7, 2006 I wrote a piece titled Free Speech.
Today Peggy Noonan wrote about "The Sounds of Silencing" which I consider a must read. She cites instances showing a pattern that is emerging from the left side of the aisle. A sickening pattern of inexcusable intolerance, on the left, of opinions that do not accede with their own.
Let us be more pointed. Students, stars, media movers, academics: They are always saying they want debate, but they don't. They want their vision imposed. They want to win. And if the win doesn't come quickly, they'll rush the stage, curse you out, attempt to intimidate.
This is becoming the prevalent mindset on the left, one they are teaching their children. The tactics of bullying, intimidating or yelling over any conclusion that does not coincide with their own, is becoming the norm.
If one cannot argue the point intelligently, or win the debate, then the predilection is to simply end the debate by any means. Perhaps these people should move someplace like Iran, where people with dissenting opinions are jailed.
Where has free speech gone? Where has the ability to debate an issue without resorting to physical violence or intimidation gone?
Freedom of speech is the concept of being able to speak freely without censorship. It is often regarded as an integral concept in modern liberal democracies. The right to freedom of speech is guaranteed under international law through numerous human rights instruments, notably under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, although implementation remains lacking in many countries. The synonymous term freedom of expression is sometimes preferred, since the right is not confined to verbal speech but is understood to protect any act of seeking, receiving and imparting information or ideas, regardless of the medium used.
Democrats and supposed liberals should try remembering this. Just because you have no legitimate argument to a point being made, does not give you the right to impede another persons views or opinions.
Others posting on this: Dr. Sanity, Ex-Donkey Blog, Gateway Pundit, Sister Toldjah.
Feel Free to join Stop the ACLU's Friday free For All.