student asking question

If the freedom of speech is so important, why would they moderate the contents? Isn't it a contradiction?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Oh, good question! From my understanding, freedom of speech is important, so long as it doesn't go against the rights of other people. So, let's say someone calls someone a slur; one could argue that that's freedom of speech. However, it's violence towards the other person, so it shouldn't necessarily be allowed. Or even with incorrect information, one can voice their opinion that they agree with it. However, if the claim isn't backed up, then it's imposing on people's right to the correct, or at least sourced, information. So in this way, moderation of content may be necessary to some degree. Otherwise, people will say what they like without regard for others.

Popular Q&As

12/16

Complete the expression with a quiz!