Freedom of speech is an integral part of the U.S.A’s national identity. It allows us to freely engage in civil discourse, openly critique powerful institutions, and promote new ideas to improve our society. However, freedom of speech is also used to justify hate speech. This has led to a series of questions that are increasingly being asked nationwide.
Should free speech be limited? Should hate speech be censored? How should we as a society respond to speech we perceive as harmful? The answers to these questions may seem intuitive, yet they are at the heart of many heated debates.
Speakers:
Eric K. Ward – Western States Center Executive Director
Dr. Doyle Srader – Professor of Speech and Communication at Northwest Christian University.
Listen to Free Speech vs. Hate Speech, a City Club of Eugene program.
Source: KLCC 89.7 NPR for Oregonians