Philosophy in the Community: Lecture #3
When should we protect free speech? Find out at Philosophy in the Community.
Philosophy in the Community
Free Lecture and Discussion Series
Friday, Nov. 13, 7:00 pm
The Refinery (basement of Emmanuel Anglican Church)
609 Dufferin Ave., at 12th St.
Lecture # 3
When Should We Protect Free Speech?
Prof. Susan Dieleman, Philosophy
One of the most famous arguments in favour of protecting free speech is the epistemological argument, endorsed by John Stuart Mill, who argues that free speech is valuable because it helps us discover the truth. The only time we’re warranted in limiting free speech, he thinks, is when it’s likely to lead to physical harm. I will suggest that the epistemological argument can actually lead to a different conclusion: if we are warranted in limiting free speech when it is likely to lead to physical harm, we can also be warranted when it is likely to lead to humiliation.
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