Take our user survey and make your voice heard.

Voices
in
Japan

have your say

What is your definition of freedom of speech?

8 Comments

©2024 GPlusMedia Inc.

8 Comments
Login to comment

To be able to post freely on JT without the censorship

10 ( +11 / -1 )

There is no 'my definition', there is only 'the definition':

the right of people to express their opinions publicly without governmental interference, subject to the laws against libel, incitement to violence or rebellion, etc.

Source: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/freedom%20of%20speech?s=t

Of course the exact wording my change depending on the dictionary you look at, but the content is the same - to be free from prosecution for one's speech.

People who cry 'freedom of speech' when they get censored on a website very clearly do not understand the concept of freedom of speech.

-2 ( +2 / -4 )

Freedom of speech is an abstract concept. It has never existed anywhere. My definition would be the right to say or write anything you like without consequences. But that is impossible. There will always be consequences, such as being sued under libel and slander laws, getting fired or beaten up or killed because someone doesn't like what you said. And of course, hate speech and inciting others to violence - that's literally freedom of speech, too, isn't it?

-1 ( +2 / -3 )

The maturity to recognise that everybody has their their own truth - no matter how abhorrent other aspects of their behaviour or opinions may be - and coaxing that truth out from amongst all the clutter.

2 ( +3 / -1 )

'The maturity to recognise that everybody has their their own truth'

Yes, and the maturity for those whose 'truths' are criticised or ridiculed to respond in an adult, considered manner.

0 ( +2 / -2 )

To be able to call a spade a spade.

1 ( +3 / -2 )

Simply put it's the right to say anything you want to say without being penalized by the government as long as you're not inviting crime, spewing out fighting words, making true threats, or saying obscenity, you're pretty much good to go.

1 ( +1 / -0 )

to be able to say anything you want to say publicly. no exceptions.

0 ( +1 / -1 )

Login to leave a comment

Facebook users

Use your Facebook account to login or register with JapanToday. By doing so, you will also receive an email inviting you to receive our news alerts.

Facebook Connect

Login with your JapanToday account

User registration

Articles, Offers & Useful Resources

A mix of what's trending on our other sites