Is There Such a Thing As Freedom Of Speech?

[Pygoscelis]

But I always struggle with why somebody should wish to say or do something which they know will cause offense to other people. No matter how valid the point they are trying to make is - can't they find a less offensive way of making it?

Sometimes there is. Sometimes there really isn't. Note how it isn't just the nasty cartoons of the prophet with a bomb on his head that get ire (those deserve ire) but also cartoons like Jesus & Mo, which make jokes about religion, rarely actually attacking either of the prophets, but merely depicting them.

Also, I would agree that as a matter of decency and politeness, we should make an effort to make our points and criticisms as least offensive as possible, but that shouldn't be made a legal requirement. We should not forced to walk on eggshells around unreasonably sensitive people. And we certainly should not be banned from criticizing what they hold dear, especially if we ourselves find it offensive or dangerous.

People simply need a thicker skin, especially if they themselves go around saying aggressive and offensive things, such as endorsing and worshiping deities they claim to hurt or punish or torture others simply for not following them, or calling them abominations for their sexual preferences, etc.

I find the proper reaction to offensive speech to be either to ignore it or to speak against it and expose it for the garbage that it is. But if people instead react to it with violence, then it will quickly become far better heard, and it becomes imperative that it DOES get heard, so that violence does not get rewarded.

I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend your right to say it, unless it promotes violence, etc.

 

[glo]

Pygo, I can pretty much agree with your post.
Living with an outspoken atheist, my skin is fairly thick. LOL

I quite like Jesus & Mo too - they can be quite thought-provoking, actually. I think sometimes we do well to listen to those outside our own faith, because they have the ability to see things with fresh eyes and point out a few home truths about our behaviours and attitudes. Sometimes those 'non-believing prophets' make very clear criticisms and good points ... if only we are open and honest enough to listen!

Still, I find it really hard when people take the p*** and resort to ridicule.
Sit me down for an honest discussion any time and I will listen, ridicule my faith which is so important and beautiful to me and I will just shut off ...