Free Speech or Hate Speech? (Latter Day Saints, moral, tradition, Jehovah)

[Dunemeister]

I just read a disconcerting article on the CBC Web site:

Dutch politician releases film calling for end to Islamic ideology

This article recounts how a Dutch politician has published a video denouncing Islam. Of course, supporters of Islam are upset (to say the least) and are seeking redress through the courts. My question is this. Although the video may be blasphemous (from an Islamic point of view) and incendiary (from anyone's point of view), does the Dutch politician not have a right to publish these views and images? Or has he somehow crossed a line that ought not be crossed? If he has crossed a line, what should we say about those people who mock other religions? For example, Richard Dawkins mocks Christianity relentlessly. Some traditional Christian organizations mock restorationist groups such as the Latter Day Saints and the Jehovah's Witnesses. Should those individuals and groups be prevented from airing their views, too?

[Zephyr]

I'm damn glad Wilders made this. Even if you don't agree with the message, it gives us a chance to see the international reaction. Will this fizzle out or will we see another Jyllands-Posten? Will Wilders be the next Theo Van Gogh?

[Mike182]

Europeon laws on hate speech are different than the US... ie, Europe has laws against it. their different in every country though, and Britain censors the most. i like it that way.

[Zephyr]

Originally Posted by Mike182

Europeon laws on hate speech are different than the US... ie, Europe has laws against it. their different in every country though, and Britain censors the most. i like it that way.

But why? Is it really that important not to offend people that you have to make it illegal?

[zippythepinhead]

Radical Islam(not Islam itself) has not been endearing to the world community. Trains being blown up in London and Madrid. The Twin Towers being leveled, the Pentagon hit by a passenger jet. We continue to be threatened by radical Islamofascists who want to destroy the U.S., Israel, and Europe. Yet what is the Islamic community doing to endear those of us non Muslims toward tolerance and acceptance of their religion.

I am not anti-Muslim or Islam. I am though questioning the hypocrisy when someone makes an Anti-Mormon film it is "free speech" and when someone makes an anti-Islam film it is insensitive and immoral.

I say let the film be shown and the radical Muslims and their stupid protests be damned.