In his article titled “Free Speech?”, Rob Rogers discusses the concept of free speech and its limitations in today’s society. He begins by stating that free speech can only exist if everyone agrees on what constitutes acceptable speech. However, this agreement is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve as people have different opinions and beliefs. Rogers argues that the definition of free speech has become warped, with some individuals using it as an excuse to spread hate speech and misinformation.
Rogers points out that social media platforms have become breeding grounds for the spread of false information and hate speech. While these platforms claim to support free speech, they often face criticism for not doing enough to regulate harmful content. Rogers argues that there needs to be a balance between free speech and responsibility, as allowing harmful content to flourish can have serious consequences for society.
The author also discusses the case of his own experience with free speech limitations. As a political cartoonist, Rogers faced backlash for his work criticizing former President Donald Trump. He points out that even though he had the right to express his opinions, there were those who tried to silence him by canceling his cartoons or labeling him as biased. Rogers concludes that freedom of speech is not absolute and should not be used as a shield to spread hate and falsehoods.
In conclusion, Rogers believes that the concept of free speech is becoming increasingly complicated in today’s society. While it is essential to uphold the right to express opinions, there needs to be a collective agreement on what is considered acceptable speech. He emphasizes the importance of regulating harmful content on social media platforms and finding a balance between free speech and responsibility. Rogers also highlights his own experience with limitations on free speech, demonstrating that even those with the right to express their opinions can face backlash and attempts to silence them.
