The Link Between Freedom of Speech and Hate Speech

“What is freedom of expression? Without the freedom to offend, it ceases to exist” This quote is a perfect way to state just one view on this topic. It is a fact that freedom of speech is a fundamental human right. Lately there has been rising concerns about hate speech, if its protected by this basic human right or should it have limitations? Given the fact that every individual can express their views and opinions wouldn’t banning so called “hate speech” deny this basic right.

Freedom of speech is a building block for all other human rights, allowing society to strengthen and grow This right to freely speak our opinion is important for any change in society. Throughout history, society grew and changed due to brave leaders and great thinkers who were not scared to share their beliefs. Back in different times those beliefs that were different or opposed the mob-mentality would be considered as hate or a hatred towards their way of life and tradition. Professors and experts alike confirm that freedom of speech has nearly always been used to fight for a better way of life.

Besides from the support of other human rights, freedom of speech is essential due to its ability to be heard and hear others views and opinions as well. We need to hear others view on topics as well as offering them our own opinions. Unfortunately, the problems with our society is that people don’t listen to others and their take on certain topics if they don’t agree with them. We shouldn’t feel anxious or worried about exchanging ideas and thoughts with those who have opposing views. Using this view there would be less “hate speech” circling around. Using this logic, wouldn’t this solve conflict before it happens?

The term “hate speech” is hear and read a lot, especially now with the easy access to the internet and a vast system of social media. It comes with no surprise that insulting comments and expressing negative ideas are considered a threat. A lot of people are anti-Muslim, anti-gay marriage and so on. Those who say “hate speech” isn’t a part freedom of speech, primarily focus on the smallest signs of negative attitude towards people and ideas. However, if we stop people from showing their beliefs, then what comes next? After this there will be something else to stop and eventually, people would fear to saying anything that they believe in at all. The reality is that the society has become oversensitive and afraid of facing conflict; everything someone does not agree with is considered insulting, hateful or discriminative.

Finally, freedom of speech is the single most important human right that every single person is allowed to use. This freedom comes with the right to state their own opinion if its nature good or bad. What our society desperately needs are not limitations put on freedom of speech but making efforts to establish dialogues between people with conflicting beliefs. Listening and being heard will go a long way; instead of destroying connections we can build new stronger ones.