Freedom Of Speech Argument Essay

“If all mankind minus one were of one opinion, and only one person were of the contrary opinion, mankind would be no more justified in silencing that one person than he, if he had the power, would be justified in silencing mankind” (Mill 515). These words by John Stuart Mill are a superb example of the indisputable human right that is freedom of speech. This topic has been one of the most controversial throughout history. The necessity of freedom of speech for the progress of humanity should be an ample argument for it to be acknowledged. Why would it be necessary for humanity to progress, though? Well, freedom of speech involves the exchange of ideas. Any idea that might be wrong can only be disproved if it is expressed, just as

It is the core of human individuality. No person can achieve true freedom of self and, therefore, no happiness if they can’t express their personality. “The First Amendment serves not only the needs of the polity but also those of the human spirit- a spirit that demands self-expression” (Marshall, case Procunier v. Martinez). No culture would flourish and no diversity would exist if individuality was discouraged. Freedom of speech comes from freedom of thought, which is the ability to reason and create. To deny the freedom to speak would mean to deny the freedom to

There needs to be a fine line between what is considered hate speech and what isn’t. For that, the question “is it inciting violence?” must be asked. True threats that involve the encouragement of violence wouldn’t be considered hate speech, though, but hate crime, mainly because they involve acts of hostility towards a specific type of people. If the intent of actively harming another person is present, then it must be considered a hate crime. If it is not, then the person has the right to express that opinion. Whether words will cause harm or not is subjective, whereas whether physical aggression will cause harm or not is objective. People are in control of their own emotions; thus, it is entirely up to a person whether a comment will upset or gratify