Freedom of speech

The challenge process is all about the continual questioning and brainstorming to find a better way. Usually, we point to freedom of speech and standards as the societal concept that underlies the organizational concept.

So, I must admits that freedom speech as a concept is an area I have not studied at length. When putting together readings for the curriculums I work on, there didn't seem to be a single piece that screamed "put me on the list." I am certain that part of this is my ignorance, and I am hoping you can help me out in the comments.

This intern cycle we are using parts of John Mill's On Liberty. I've faced two major obstacles in finding good selections. The first is that my base knowledge in this is lacking. Second, I find that it is tough to talk about freedom of speech in a modern way without bringing up the extremely offensive, which I am not comfortable doing.

What things have helped you understand freedom of speech and standards? What texts or resources might help drive productive discussion around this topic?

Comments

[Peter]

I believe that a lot of the thinking around freedom of speech originated during the 17th century English Civil War and the Glorious Revolution. Freedom of Speech was first prescribed in the English Bill of Rights of 1689. http://avalon.law.yale.edu/17th_century/england.asp

Political writers of the time might have pithy statements in support of free speech... perhaps Locke, Hobbes, or Milton?

[David McGinnis]

it might be worth checking out chapter 15 of The Ethics of Liberty by Murray Rothbard

"a person does not have a "right to freedom of speech"; what he does have is the right to hire a hall and address the people who enter the premises. He does not have a "right to freedom of the press"; what he does have is the right to write or publish a pamphlet, and to sell that pamphlet to those who are willing to buy it (or to give it away to those who are willing to accept it). Thus, what he has in each of these cases is property rights, including the right of free contract and transfer which form a part of such rights of ownership. There is no extra "right of free speech" or free press beyond the property rights that a person may have in any given case."

http://mises.org/daily/2569

[Ann Zerkle]

Thanks for the suggestions! I've got them on my list to check out. I'm hoping this will help me form ideas for future curriculums. I'll be sure to report back as I find interesting things.