Reply #56: Freedom of speech has plenty of limitations

[NuclearDem]

But I think you're comparing apples and oranges here. Nazi demonstrators don't hold the same power over our lives as the media does; what some group of hate-filled demonstrators in Phoenix says doesn't affect my perception of current events.

And there's plenty of case law and legislation out there to protect the innocent, especially from the hate that the Nazis are spreading here. Like others have pointed out, freedom of speech is restricted if it incites violence, if it recklessly endangers others, or it advocates the overthrow of the government. Hate crime legislation exists to keep the Nazis from practicing what they preach; they can spew hatred of the Jews all they want, but the second they assault a Jew or encourage others to do so, they'll be doing extra time in prison.

Of course, you might not even be talking about the Nazis, and I wholeheartedly agree with you that media outlets shouldn't be allowed to lie, since we depend on them so much for facts and news, and I vehemently oppose allowing corporations to spend all they want on campaigns, but regardless, hate speech is protected. Hate actions are not.

Good point you raise though. And said with civility too, something this thread's been lacking. :fistbump: And just FYI, my above post (#53) wasn't directed at you, it was mostly at the people who were attempting to black-and-white the issue.