Freedom of Speech is really about Freedom of Agenda

[MrScorpio]

Everyone is entitled to their own.

But unfortunately, sacred cows trump all others.

[meeshrox]

1. Funny, that...

it's the theme of Freakonomics, although they don't offer much commentary as to the consequences. They say that every works in their own self-interest and that's a good yard-stick for many people's actions. Of course, there are some that think of others' interests, also. :)

[onenote]

2. Freedom of speech is really about whether the government can restrict speech n/t

[MrScorpio]

4. I'm distinguishing meaning from authorization

Whereas, in lieu of government restriction, other factors apply.

[nichomachus]

6. Government can restrict speech in numerous ways

One is to coercively prevent you from speaking at all. Another is to impose penalties so drastic that the chilling effect prevents other from speaking the truth. The Soviets used it to maximum advantage. If you spoke an inconvenient truth, you were put in a mental hospital and injected with psychotropic drugs. That was enough to keep other people quiet.

[Echo In Light]

3. Within an era of unprecedented access to 'un-managed' data, yes, basically

[Captain Hilts]

5. Yes.

[nichomachus]

7. Yes -- even here on DU

[Hell Hath No Fury]

8. Agreed.

:(