Introduction
Freedom of speech is a basic human right, which encourages the expression and articulation of every individual’s opinion and views without fear of prejudice, censorship, or legal sanction. Like many other human rights, it is protected by the constitutional law in many democratic states, and it’s considered a fundamental aspect of democracy. Hate speech is described by the Cambridge Dictionary as speech that expresses hate or encourages violence towards a certain person or group based on race, culture, religion, sexual orientation or sex. The distinction between hate speech and freedom of speech is critical because freedom of speech should be used carefully and not in a manner which characterises discriminatory, stereotypical and hateful speech or violate a person’s or group’s basic human rights.
Why is Freedom of Speech Important?
Freedom of speech allows us to share our thoughts, views, opinions about relevant topics and disagree with each other safely. It grants us the ability to ask important questions and demand answers from those in power. It gives us the power to shape our society according to our will through active discussions and conversations. In a democratic state or republic, the citizens are allowed to freely express themselves, share their opinions and to offer their fair criticism of their leaders and government without retaliation. Freedom of speech is one of the cornerstones of democracy because it gives people the freedom to speak their minds without interference or restrictions. It empowers individuals to stand up for their beliefs, speak for themselves when they feel unjustly treated and to exercise their democratic liberties.
Why is Hate Speech Harmful?
Hate speech is viewed as harmful, it is a violation of human rights and contributes to the erosion of democratic values and belief systems. It undermines the liberties of individuals or groups by perpetuating racial, religious and gender stereotypes and encourages violence and hatred towards certain people. Hate speech creates conflict and division within our society. It affects the relations of different groups and creates tension within communities. Hate speech can be offensive, discriminatory or prejudice, leading to serious consequences on those affected. It’s important to exercise free speech without condoning or encouraging violence, racism and hate or spread harmful propaganda against any particular group or person.
Conclusion
Despite freedom of speech being an essential right which citizens can exercise to express themselves; opinions and thought does not come without their limits or restrictions. It’s often regulated and expressed in a way that doesn’t violate or discriminate against others. Freedom of speech can be weaponised if used incorrectly or irresponsibly resulting in the harm of others. Freedom of speech could incite hatred and violence or intentionally mislead others through a deliberate spread of misinformation. It should be used with careful consideration and sensitivity in order not to offend or threaten the democratic liberties of others.
