“I do not agree with what you have to say, but I’ll defend to the death your right to say it,” Voltaire.
This quote by the philosopher commonly known as Voltaire is my favorite on free expression. I use it to remind myself that just because I don’t like something or don’t agree with it doesn’t mean it’s wrong.
The ability to entertain ideas counter to your own is a measure of an educated and enlightened individual. Exposing yourself to ideas different from your own also is a way to challenge your individual beliefs and truly understand yourself. This is simultaneously challenging and freeing.
Aside from individual perspectives of the quote, free expression is not something I think you can support partially. You either support it or you don’t. If you support free expression, you must support it for everyone, in all circumstances.
BCNatashaCasey says
profkrg hate to be nit picky but saw a fabulous media and information literacy on this quote. Voltaire didnot say it! #MIL
profkrg says
BCNatashaCasey I’ve read that too. There seems to be some question.