Letter: An attack on free speech – Concord Monitor

An attack on free speech

Susan Shamels letter requesting that the Concord Monitor limit the free speech of some of its readers was alarming (Monitor letters, March 27).

The topic of Shamels letter doesnt matter. What does matter is that some people like Shamel believe that their opinion and supporting facts matter so much that any opposing opinion does not deserve the same free speech rights.

At the same time I am sure Shamel would protest against restrictions on human rights in other countries, like Russia, she wants to restrict such human rights here in the United States and actually endorses the method of censorship used by the Los Angeles Times. The speech restriction Shamel supports has proven to be the first step in controlling and subverting human rights and is directly in line with the theories put forth by Karl Marx.

Many problems we are seeing today, including university students refusing to listen or participate in reasoned conversation, arise from this form of arrogance. I didnt serve for more than 25 years in our military so people could decide whose speech is acceptable and whose speech must be censored. Although I may adamantly oppose the viewpoints of many who speak out today, it is a basic human right to express viewpoints in a civilized manner.

I find it disgusting that people are willing to chip away at this basic human right because they believe their opinions are superior to those they wish to silence.

J. Brandon Giuda

Chichester

More:
Letter: An attack on free speech - Concord Monitor