...Fighting Words The power of your voice can change what others think and feel. But a world without freedom of expression would be a world without social change. This freedom of expression allows you to be who you are and not be ashamed to show the world. The question we must then ask ourselves is what if we were stripped away from the right to express ourselves? What would a society be like? Can our minds even fathom what life would be like? With freedom of expression we can express different things in different manners, although the way we express this may not come out the correct way. The freedom of expression can be deadly when it is used the wrong way. Many people feel like they can say whatever they want whenever they want. In return the government ends of happening to silence the people. The people are now keeping their thoughts and their feelings held captive on the inside of them. When this happens people tend to become alive but yet dead on the inside. They drown in their own thoughts and become depressed and opressed. In the novel, Fahrenheit 451, by Ray Bradbury, depicts how a society has lacked the opportunity to express themselves. Mildred, a character in the novel is used to represent the people in this society as a whole. She shows how people without freedom of expression become so compressed by their own feelings that they become dead on the inside. There are so many people in their world that are like Mildred. “We get these cases nine or ten a night.’’says...
Words: 1132 - Pages: 5
...Freedom of Expression in UK Jan 15, 2014 Student Name: Question: Freedom of expression should be guaranteed in UK? Introduction Several countries oversee media in distant ways. The reason behind is to interpret the laws and regulations or principles of Human Rights as per Universal Declaration in divergent manner. The constitutional principles regarding Human Rights might include freedom of media, freedom of expression, freedom of thoughts and freedom of opinion. However, no particular universal definition is there for “Freedom of Expression.” All the events and current happenings play as a beginning point for government rules and regulations for freedom of expression in distinct contexts and peculiar political contexts. Mostly people agree upon that in a democratic society freedom of speech or freedom of expression is essential. The broadcast media, the press media and opponents of political parties must have the freedom of speech to over those who so ever are in power. This is the way to take individuals opinion about their leader’s accountable and express as a free citizen whatever they feel. So it does not make any difference how vulgar, indecent/coarse specific kind of expression it might be, an individual has got the right to express it and those who got to know this have the right to react on it. In order to cite the freedom of speech’s and expression’s role in a democratic society, this is necessary to pageant the demands of democratic society that is addressed...
Words: 872 - Pages: 4
...FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION ‘Freedom of expression’ is an amalgamation of several concepts and rights that includes freedom of speech and choice of what a person is allowed to say, do, hear, feel or express. If we break down the words and analyse them from their core, the simple meaning according to various dictionaries of freedom is ‘the power to determine action without restraint’ or ‘exemption from external control, interference, regulation, etc’ this implies that freedom is liberty without constraints, whereas expression is nothing but the act of putting forth things in words or describing or expressing current emotions through multiple means at different levels, for example spiritual, mental, physical or social. Since we are discussing ‘Freedom of expression’ in regard to social media and in specifics to social networking websites like Facebook and Wikileaks who assimilate multimillion threads of information and personal data every day, what they do with it and how it can affect various functional groups in the society like the (3 tier spread): 1. Government 2. Society 3. Corporations Freedom of speech is not generally seen as an absolute right, but a prudential right. An absolute right is a right that cannot be interfered of overridden, no matter what the public interest in doing so may be. Keeping the above in mind there are two aspects that have to be relatively analysed that is the positive and negative, and how different components of society’s composition are...
Words: 1588 - Pages: 7
...government seeks power by silencing the ideas of its people by banning their books .Some may say this is the world we live in. Related to book banning is literary merit defined, as a high quality of writing including drama poetry and prose. Author of the howl, Walter Van Tilburg Clark is famous for his definition of literary merit. He states “The only final test, it seems to me, of literary merit, is the power to endure”. Others may call it "standing the test of time". Book banning in America is the restriction of a book to a certain group of people for the purpose of censoring specific material. Often the material is that, that has been declared dangerous and unfit for young children American Library Association promotes the freedom to choose or the freedom to express one's opinions despite the controversy from the book. On the contrary the act of banning a certain book can cause an uproar as well. Many will go as far to say...
Words: 1401 - Pages: 6
...Some people believe that freedom of speech is something that should be limited when it come to sensitive information. I feel that if its limited it not freedom. This was a big problem. Note it was a problem. Its not the information that is so called sensitive it’s the public’s reaction to it that causes the problem I think the world only has a problem with freedom of press when it’s either about them or if its bad press. I have never seen anyone complaining about press that is in his or her favor or anything that is not in his or her favor Freedom of the press is defined by dictionary.com as the right to circulate opinion in print without censorship from the government. America’s Founding Fathers believed so strongly in the right to free speech that they codified it in the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which states in part, “Congress shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press.” This right was considered so important it was the first of the ten freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights. So why should anyone think or feel that they can limit people on their right as humans. I see freedom of press as the same thing as freedom of speech. Most individual are fine with freedom of press until it hits home. So why take the right away when your in the spotlight. It just isn’t fair. I really don’t think that sensitive information sways people in the work plae one way or the other. For everything that said in the press there is...
Words: 904 - Pages: 4
...Banned Books: A History and Examination One of the most prolific issues in American education has been censorship in the classroom. This issue has manifested itself in several ways throughout history; however, censorship most often manifests itself in the classroom as book banning. Book banning can be any form of textual censorship from the exclusion of novels from a school library, to the censoring of textbooks by a school board, to the full banning of books by a government. This paper will examine book banning and textual censorship and its impact on education. It will first look at the history of book banning including several modern occurrences of it in the classroom. It will then seek to explain the significance of book banning on education in general with particular attention paid to the American educational system. Banning books has been used as a system for controlling what students learn for ages where those in power use it force the views of the few on the next generation of learners. The banning of books has its origins as far back as 450 B.C., when Anaxagoras wrote that he thought the sun was a “white hot stone and that the moon reflected the sun's rays.” His writings were deemed “derogatory” to the gods, forcing his departure from Athens and the burning of all of his writings. Since that time, decisions about book bannings often have turned on the definition of what is derogatory. As society has grown and changed, so have its tastes, and the fine...
Words: 1561 - Pages: 7
...There is a huge argument about whether certain books should be banned in schools or not. Banning books leaves out topics that kids in upper grades should be able to see. Another arguing point is the question of who decides what books should be banned in schools. Another point that is often brought up is freedom of speech. Books should only be banned from schools in specific cases as it keeps books away from upper grades, brings the question of “who decides?” and is against freedom of speech. Kids in upper grade levels have a right to be able to see the banned content as it shows them new things and broadens their horizons. Banning a book keeps kids in upper grades who have most likely have been exposed to these subjects and already have a solid opinion on the matter away from learning more on the subject. Keeping kids away from these subjects also keeps kids who have not been exposed to the subjects in these banned books from learning about it and seeing it in writing, which in turn keeps them from receiving and developing an opinion which will work to their disadvantage later in life when the subject comes up. Banning books also keeps...
Words: 677 - Pages: 3
...Bhargav Patel English 015 Dr. Prettyman 16th September, 2013 Two different worlds Vivienne Westwood once said, “There is so much that people take for granted”. I know I take things for granted and you probably do too, but we don’t realize it and we keep living our day to day lives. In the article, “Malala’s global voice stronger than ever”, we learn the importance of an education as well as the danger’s that children face in Pakistan in acquiring an education. We who are privileged in receiving an education, having public safety, and being able to enjoy freedom of speech don’t realize what our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world go through. It’s important to think about how our lives compare to the lives of other people around the world and in comparing myself to Malala, I hope to show the importance of an education, public safety, and the freedom of rights. What is education? Education is the most important aspect of a person’s life. It’s fruits and benefits are endless. An education develops a human being and it improves the well being of an individual. In today’s society, having an education can lead to a more better quality life. Unfortunately, in some places around the world, getting an education is looked upon as a crime, especially for women in Pakistan. Through Malala’s story, we are able to see the struggle and hardships for kids from getting an education. I’m able to realize how fortunate I am as receiving an education has always been there for...
Words: 835 - Pages: 4
...The novella Anthem portrays life in a world with no freedom of expression. One where dehumanization and alienation is common. It follows Equality 7-2521 and all his struggles and awareness throughout his lifetime. The protagonist also responds to human rights violations by progressively becoming aware of things that are dehumanizing. From toddler to adult every moment is shown and brings us into his world, one with many restrictions and unhappiness. A world of the great ‘WE’. Many struggles are depicted throughout but are, without a doubt, followed by a positive outcome. At the very beginning, after being introduced to our protagonist, it is discovered that from a young age Equality 7-2521 was never like the other kids. He wanted to learn...
Words: 389 - Pages: 2
...Freedom of Speech and expression in the school system The Supreme Court has recognized several categories that are excluded from freedom and the government now has the right to put reasonable restrictions on certain speech and expressions. These restrictions take me to the discussion of freedom of speech and expression in the schools. School officials may limit free speech under certain conditions. This right applies to all levels of education for students and teachers. Both students and teachers have the right to speak their minds and convey freedom of speech and expression thru clothing, hair colors and other expressive actions and statements. There are limits though in the school setting, deciding on where the line is crossed though is the tough decision. Freedom of speech does not only have to be a language but can also include art, non-verbal expression anything that coveys a message to another person. I do believe that everyone has the right to freedom of speech and expression but I also believe there is a time and a place for everything. In a school setting you need to provide a safe learning environment for all students. And this means making tough decisions as to what should and should not be tolerated. When it comes to the subject of the pledge of allegiance in schools I truly believe strongly that it should be allowed and performed as part of the school curriculum. Growing up we recited the pledge every morning. It was not until recent years that some decided it...
Words: 515 - Pages: 3
...Haroon Abdullah Senior Project Rough Ideas Should freedom of speech have some legal restrictions? Abstract The report given below tells us about the “freedom of speech”, its history and why it has become a problem in the modern world today. The term freedom means that you have the complete right to live however you want, without any interference from a second or third person. It also means living the life you want and not living the way any government wants. Similarly, freedom of speech is the concept of the inborn human right to be heard, and to give voice to their own outlook, beliefs and judgments without the dread of being penalized and rebuked. This freedom is not limited to speaking publicly, and is usually taken to comprise of other forms of expression. It is the right to put forward your opinion without hesitation, to worship whoever you want, to criticize whoever and whatever, and to express yourself liberally. The freedom of expression is a topic talked around the entire world. In this report, I will talk about whether freedom of speech should have legal restrictions or not. This report will also include all kinds of visual aids, stats, and a logical conclusion in the end. Introduction (history) It is believed that the idea of free speech goes back to ancient times. It was the Romans and Greeks that first recognized their right to be able to raise their voice and say what they believe in. Free Speech is closely linked to democracy, as democracy created...
Words: 1500 - Pages: 6
...hate speech should be regulated and cannot differentiate between a word and an action; As opposed to those who simply and wholeheartedly believe that a word is just a word and not an action. They appreciate the right to free speech and do not wish to compromise it. In the article “Protecting Freedom of Expression on the Campus” by Derek Bok, he clearly demonstrates the possibility of ignorance and peace rather than prohibition and destruction in correlation to the First Amendment. Americans have an obligation to grasp the core idea of free speech for it is the true focal point and embodiment of our democratic system, whereas hurting one’s feelings dismisses the bona fide translation of our first amendment....
Words: 1647 - Pages: 7
...The concept of an individuals privacy and it’s juxtaposition with freedom of press has been an area of concern for the European Court of Human Rights for many years, as such many legislative proceedings within the United Kingdom have followed precedent set out in those cases. Richard Peppiat, former journalist for the Daily Star Newspaper during an interview once quoted, “When you are immersed in that world you don’t see people as people. You see them as targets who can provide information or quotes. You lose any moral or ethical considerations. In your desperation to get a story you forget you are dealing with individuals, family life, privacy.”.(Carrick, D. 2012) The object of this essay is to evaluate the significance of the issue of balance between an individual supposed right to Privacy and the collective right given to Freedom of Expression within the Print industry. Specific reference will be made to adjudications made by the European Court of Human rights and how this has set out guidelines regarding the aforementioned. Furthermore, these cases will be analysed and compared to notable United Kingdom court cases to allow further insight into this particular problem facing the Media industry. The National Union of Journalists set out a code of conduct, outlining the main principles of journalistic ethics, something that has been held as industry guidelines since it’s creation in 1936. Part of that code of ethics states, “A journalist does nothing to intrude...
Words: 2383 - Pages: 10
...For immediate release – 19 May 2009 Bangladesh: Government’s Vision for Digital Bangladesh Must Include Community Radios As part of its vision for Digital Bangladesh, the Government of Bangladesh has committed to issuing licenses for community radio stations. Yeafesh Osman, Minister for Science and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), said: “I can assure you that the government will be issuing licenses for community radio soon. This will be a major step towards achieving the government’s vision for a Digital Bangladesh.” Osman was speaking during an interview with a community radio station broadcasting from an ARTICLE 19 and partner BNNRC exhibition stall at the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day event, held in Chittagong on 16-17 May. As part of this event, ARTICLE 19 and partner organisation Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication (BNNRC) promoted the theme of community radio and access to information through an exhibition stall and fully-fledged community radio station, broadcasting on FM. The two-day event was organised by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and comprised a national seminar on “Digital Bangladesh” and “Vision 2021”, as well as an ICT exhibition displaying different information and communication innovations. With over 20 stalls, various ICT-based organisations took part in the event, including those promoting software, call-centres, internet services, telecommunication infrastructure services...
Words: 386 - Pages: 2
...extent are restrictions on freedom of speech justified in Australia? While there are laws that restrict Freedom of Speech in Australia in order to protect fundamental rights and to limit discrimination which emerged from multiculturalism, the same laws can also clash with the liberty of the citizens and with the right of Freedom of Speech itself. Introduction To establish the boundaries between the defense of Freedom of Expression and of minorities has become a challenge for modern states. The consolidation of different groups (ethnocultural , sexual diversity , immigrants, religious) within the base community has generated the need to redefine and strengthen the defense of the human rights. As Will Kymlicka explains, cultural mix requires an inclusive process, which involves the establishment of a group of rights that recognizes and protects the minorities. Conversely, the ongoing struggle of the minorities has a major difficulty: the delicate border between the defense of their rights and the violation of the rights of the community. Firstly, this essay aims to explain the current conception of Freedom of Speech, since it is a controversial issue, focusing on the importance of that right for the Australian society and for the world. Secondly, we will analyze whether Freedom of Speech needs limits and the role of harm speech and offense speech in that topic in Australia. Finally, the third paragraph will focus on the restrictions of Freedom of Speech in Australia...
Words: 886 - Pages: 4