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About this quote

What does it mean?
People support free speech only when it does not affect them personally.
In plain terms
Free speech is popular only when it costs nothing.
What can you take from it?
Principles are often tested by personal cost.

Where it applies

  • political debates
  • free time
  • activism

Putting it to work

  • stand by principles
  • anticipate conflict

Questions to consider

  • Do you support speech you dislike?
  • When do you change your mind?

Another view

Some may support free speech until they are the target.

More from Heywood Broun

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