The First Law of Freedom of Expression

It is held to be a fundamental right – we can say what we want, about whatever we want, whenever we want.

And, in general terms that is fair enough. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion – on everything. We can agree, disagree, or really not give a damn. That is our right.

However, those that shout the loudest about their rights also tend to be the ones who fail to see both sides of any right. To claim a right involves taking responsibility for the repercussions of exercising that right.

And therefore, the reverse should also hold true – if you are not prepared to take responsibility for your actions, in this case what you say, then shut up!

Discussion, discourse, disagreement – the basis of civilisation, because the result should be an acceptable compromise. But it only works with respect, on both sides.

In any discussion, where opposing opinions meet, there will come a point where either one side or the other – or maybe both – will change or adjust their position OR where it is clear that there will be no agreement.

In that case the first rule states you stop. Retain respect and stop. You do not continue to harangue and bombard and assault with more and more of the same. Because your responsibility for your freedom to hold your views, and state them, requires you to respect those that no longer want to hear them.

And you stop.

The problem we have today is that those that shout the loudest about their freedom do not care about its universality. Their freedom requires others to be restricted, to not hold and put forward their own views.

I see and understand that much of this stems from fear, and disaffection, and powerlessness. And that the only answer seems to shout the loudest, and the most extreme of ideas, to get a hearing.

The trouble is that, if you are quiet for a second, you will see that those you are shouting down are those that are most willing to help, and support, and empathise.

Whilst we all have a right to our individuality of thought, and state it, we should also see that there is always more to link us than to separate.

So, say what you feel, but also listen, and hear, and respect.

Or we all lose.