Viewpoint 4/23

Assume that our next debate will have the resolution, "There should be limits to free speech."

1) Write three things based on the reading that supports the above resolution. This is the "pro" argument.

In my opinion a sprinkling of censorship isn't a bad thing. Jonah Goldberg says that people, but particularly the media, has been brain washed to think that censorship is always a major threat to our freedom. Many people everywhere think that obscenity such as poop covered paintings are beautiful examples of free expression while democratic debate is censored. Jonah Goldberg says: If you believe that all free speech should be allowed, do you think that TV channels should be able to run pornography?

2) Write three things based on the reading that goes against the above resolution. This is the "con" argument.

The ACLU says that without freedom of speech, democracy is impossible. People’s opinions, even if it is unpopular or hateful, should be protected in order to protect the freedom that the First Amendment gives to all Americans. The ACLU says that if only popular ideas were protected we wouldn’t need the First Amendment. If you learn about hateful ideas and speech, that is the best protection that we have against it. JS Mills says that freedom of speech is vital to the advancement of knowledge and truth.

3) Write a paragraph where you state your opinion on the issue. It should include some evidence from the reading, but it does not have to follow each viewpoint to the letter. You can also include ideas and evidence from other sources or individuals.

I find myself as a strong supporter of the First Amendment and freedom of speech but I also think that some little things should be censored. For example, I do not think it would be alright for cartoon network to run pornography on Saturday morning. I definitely think that everyone should be able to express what they think and have opinions. I don’t think that people should say things that are stupid and hurtful to other people. I also believe in the free market of ideas and I think that expressing your own thoughts and communicating freely furthers society and your life.