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[–]magnora7 4 insightful - 2 fun4 insightful - 1 fun5 insightful - 2 fun -  (1 child)

I agree with the quote.

But on the flip side also imagine if I go up to someone and say like "You asshat, you're so bad and dumb and no one likes you" and stuff over and over, right in their face. Then say they go inside and shut the door in my face so they can't hear me anymore. Have I been deprived of my liberty by being kept from telling someone else what they don't want to hear? I don't think so.

I think the value of the message is important (facts vs personal attacks) in this equation. And also the ability to say something doesn't mean the ability to say it to one particular person, nor does it demand they listen. Perhaps public figures like representatives are exemptions, as they should be required to listen to their constituents. But most people are not required to listen to everything that is put in front of them, nor should they be.

However people should have the ability to broadcast ideas broadly. However people shouldn't be able to shout fire in a crowded theater. The line between the two is very fuzzy and complex when you try to find exactly where it is.

[–]sudd3nclar1ty 4 insightful - 2 fun4 insightful - 1 fun5 insightful - 2 fun -  (0 children)

lib•er•ty (lĭb′ər-tē) The condition of being free from confinement, servitude, or forced labor; the condition of being free from oppressive restriction or control by a government or other power.

While it's kinda fun telling people what they don't want to hear sometimes, it is projection of control. I think Orwell is confusing free speech with liberty here.

Free speech is about freedom TO say what you believe. Liberty is about freedom FROM oppression. Trying to control others is the pinch.

Your points about yelling fire in the theater is a good example of limits to free speech. And listening to others is a lot easier if there is something interesting to learn as well.