Who doesn't understand free speech?

[OneGrassRoot]

I read an article about the recent Michelle Shocked anti-gay tirade and subsequent backlash, with concerts being canceled.

I also read through a few comments and stumbled upon the typical posts we see whenever someone in the public eye does something ridiculous and suffers consequences of said ridiculousness.

"What about free speech? They have a right to say whatever they want to say!!! This is America!!!"

I've even seen DUers do the same, so it's not relegated to teabagger types.

What's funny (to me) is that it's usually those who treasure capitalism that are the first to pitch a fit about boycotts, saying that's infringing upon a person's free speech. Isn't the market supposed to correct everything?

WTF?

I agree with the Smart People below.

[hobbit709]

1. My attitude about free speech is this.

Everyone has the right to open mouth and see how far they can insert foot. But be prepared to face the consequences of what you said.

[OneGrassRoot]

2. Exactly!

Suffering consequences of saying what you want -- however unfair it may seem to those who agree with you (Rushbot types, for example, who always defend Limbaugh) -- does NOT mean your free speech has been infringed upon, yet they always cry, "What about free speech???!!!"

Oy.

[kudzu22]

3. I blame our educational system

Civics education is woefully lacking these days. Free speech means the government cannot restrict what you can say. It does not mean that you can say stupid things and other people can't get mad at you.

[OneGrassRoot]

6. So true. And sad. :( n/t

[Silent3]

4. Seems half the people who post on any online forum don't understand free speech.

Nor do many understand the difference between having someone (gasp!) dare to forcefully disagree with them, and being "censored".

[OneGrassRoot]

5. Yes, censorship...

Another huge aspect of such discussions. Thanks.