If we don't believe in free expression for people we despise, we don't believe in it at all.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Chomsky asserts that free expression is not meaningful unless it is extended to those whose views we deeply dislike.
- In plain terms
- We do not believe in free speech if we only allow the views we agree with.
- What can you take from it?
- Free speech is only real when it protects views you oppose.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does speech cross the line?
- How do we defend speech we hate?
Another view
This absolute view may conflict with preventing speech that incites violence.
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