Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. argued for limitations on free speech in the face of imminent lawless actions. But in the present, it has become a breeding ground for hate, a digital sewer where the vilest of ideas can spread almost unchecked. On the other side of the argument are those calling for free expression of all views, including hate speech and vitriol, which they claim serves as a digital catharsis preventing real-world violence. This insidious notion that allowing the free flow of venom online will somehow immunise our society against real-world malice is misguided. Hate speech can only be tamed by the responsible use of our freedom, not censorship.

Source: The Guardian August 02, 2024 16:32 UTC