Weighing the Pros and Cons of Free Expression

Top of Mind with Julie Rose

The right to free speech is considered a cornerstone of American democracy, but it can also be used to inflict harm. In this era of social media and polarized politics, we are constantly weighing the pros and cons of free expression. Is being offended by a statement the same as being harmed by it? Where should we draw the line between protecting one’s right to speak freely and ensuring the well-being of others? In this podcast episode, a reformed white supremacist explains why he turned to hate speech and how he's trying to make amends for the harm he caused. A legal expert debunks common myths about the First Amendment right to free speech and explains why universities and K-12 schools struggle to balance that right with the need to keep students safe. A newspaper opinion editor shares insights on learning to disagree respectfully and an advocate for civility in public discourse explains how to foster productive free expression in our communities. Podcast guests: Tony McAleer, reformed white supremacist, co-founder of Life After Hate, and author of “A Cure for Hate: A Former White Supremacist’s Journey from Violent Extremism to Radical Compassion” Danielle Weatherby, free speech scholar and professor of law, University of Arkansas Amelia Robinson, Opinion and Engagement Editor for the Columbus Dispatch David Plazas, Opinion and Engagement Director for the USA TODAY Network Tennessee, director of Civility Tennessee for The Tennessean **This episode is part of Season 3 on Top of Mind: Finding Fairness. From health and immigration to prisons and pot, how can we get more peace and prosperity for all?