Column: in Defense of Free Speech (Reuters)

[UpInArms]

http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?storyID=3688042

NEW YORK (Billboard) - Free speech is a precious right. Nowhere is that more evident than in countries where the world's dictators rule.

Almost without exception, the first victim of dictatorship is freedom of expression. Those in power cannot tolerate dissent. As we've seen in countries as diverse as Iraq, North Korea and Cuba, dissidents are frequently jailed -- or worse.

Free speech is one of the cornerstones of the world's democracies. When the Founding Fathers gathered to draft a Bill of Rights to the Constitution, it's no surprise that the protection of free speech and the establishment of religion were foremost in their minds.

<snip>

While we're not normally given to providing civics lessons in this space, we think it's important to do our part to remind readers about the importance of our "first freedom." After all, artistic expression is the first cousin of political expression, and that's something that concerns us greatly.

...more...

(note: I don't believe that I have ever seen an editorial on Reuters before....)

[donhakman]

1. The softer side of George W Bush

Well I don't know a single publisher that would print these..
whether it is considered art or speech.

[donhakman]

2. quotes

[izzie]

3. It is strang that the "Right" does not understand this.

:scared:They are a scary group to call them selfs Real Americans.