Free Speech Debate

Thirteen languages. Ten principles. One conversation.

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We – all human beings – must be free and able to express ourselves, and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas, regardless of frontiers.

We defend the internet and all other forms of communication against illegitimate encroachments by both public and private powers.

We require and create open, diverse media so we can make well-informed decisions and participate fully in political life.

We speak openly and with civility about all kinds of human difference.

We allow no taboos in the discussion and dissemination of knowledge.

We neither make threats of violence nor accept violent intimidation.

We respect the believer but not necessarily the content of the belief.

We are all entitled to a private life but should accept such scrutiny as is in the public interest.

We should be able to counter slurs on our reputations without stifling legitimate debate.

We must be free to challenge all limits to freedom of expression and information justified on such grounds as national security, public order, morality and the protection of intellectual property.

What’s missing?

Is there a vital area we have not addressed? A principle 11? An illuminating case study? Read other people's suggestions and add your own here. Or start the debate in your own language.

Home | Archives | Scientology

The exterior of the Church of Scientology Celebrity Centre International, Los Angeles, California (Photo by Getty Images/Getty Images)

Tom Cruise sues South Park

Manav Bhushan and Casey Selwyn question whether it was right for Tom Cruise to threaten to sue US show South Park over an episode that depicted Scientology in a pejorative manner and blatantly hinted that he was gay.

Published on: February 9, 2012 | Principle 9 | Comments: 1

Free Speech Debate is a research project of the Dahrendorf Programme for the Study of Freedom at St Antony's College in the University of Oxford. www.freespeechdebate.ox.ac.uk