[nfb-talk] freedom of speech

[John Heim]

It seems to me that some people on this list are a little unclear on the 
concept of freedom of speech. Freedom of speech doesn't apply only when we 
agree with the speaker. It isn't for only when we like the person and agree 
with him. In fact, the opposite is more accurate.

The whole point of freedom of speech is that sometimes people will be 
confronted with ideas that make them uncomfortable. That's how change gets 
started. Nothing would ever change if people weren't occasionally confronted 
with ideas contrary to their current beliefs. Sometimes that makes people 
uncomfortable. But that's sad. People should welcome the expression of ideas 
that differ from their own. Even if you end up continuing to disagree with 
those ideas, you will form a more clear idea of why. It will help you 
understand your own beliefs that much better.

As Americans, we should trust in the power of truth. When someone expresses 
an idea you disagree with, you should trust that others will see as you do 
that the idea has no merit. When someone expresses an idea you disagree 
with, its an opportunity to prove that your ideas are better. Get that? - 
its an opportunity.

I'm not denying that some people will never change their minds no matter 
what level of proof they are confronted with.  You may not change my mind, 
or Mike Freeman's, or T. Joseph Carter's. But you might change everybody 
else's. You need to trust in the strength of your ideas. The truth has 
power.  If your ideas can't carry the day. If they can't win out, isn't it 
better to know that?