Why Free Speech? (Fred Speaking)
		Comment				MAIN PATH: Malik
		Ann	John		Vera	Malik	Dee

I think we should use your definition - partly because I think it's similar to the definition that the administration is using in its proposals.

But I want to answer the new question: What are the general grounds for a liberal policy on free speech? I want to get into this because I disagree with Vera. I think this issue is very much a free speech issue even though I disapprove of calling anyone "nigger."

I think that there are two things involved here:

• First of all, one of the most important values that free expression is designed to protect is the search for truth. I'm thinking not only of scientific or philosophical truth, but also the search for the truth about society and politics. So I would include here debates over social policy.
  

• Second, a liberal policy is necessary for a well-functioning democracy. We all value democracy, and so we must safeguard the policies and institutions that are necessary for it to function well. A liberal policy on speech not only helps people to get the information they need to make political decisions, but it also allows each of us to participate in the democratic process by saying whatever we think needs to be said.
  

In short, we need free speech as a necessary condition of the search for truth and in order to have the kind of political system we want. There is a price to pay for these benefits. Sometimes the price is substantial, especially for specific individuals; but the benefits justify it.

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