Here is what free speech means to me. I have the suspicion that others might disagree, but it's a starting point:
Free Speech means that law shouldn't punish communication.
If you write a hate filled article then free speech protects you from lawyers. It does not force your employer to continue employing you, your neighbor to continue smiling at you, or your grocer to continue to sell food to you.
It means government won't persecute you. It does not mean everyone else must treat you the same way as they did before you said anything.
It also does not mean people have to listen to you, or that you've a right to use others property to deliver your message.
Comments
Here is what free speech means to me. I have the suspicion that others might disagree, but it's a starting point:
Free Speech means that law shouldn't punish communication.
If you write a hate filled article then free speech protects you from lawyers. It does not force your employer to continue employing you, your neighbor to continue smiling at you, or your grocer to continue to sell food to you.
It means government won't persecute you. It does not mean everyone else must treat you the same way as they did before you said anything.
It also does not mean people have to listen to you, or that you've a right to use others property to deliver your message.
I agree. Just because I advocate direct response instead of firing employees whatever possible doesn't mean I am in favor of imposing it by law.