Clarrisa ChoOng ruHOTTization

Sunday, July 8, 2007

Freedom of Speech vs Social Responsibility

Up till today, the controversial debate on whether to ensure freedom of expression of all citizens (within the limits marked by law) or to protect the collective interests of society, still remains without a conclusion.

I agree to a small extent with Singer’s views on the freedom of expression as it is true that we, the people have the right to free speech and protection against reprisal. As quoted by Singer, “Freedom of speech is essential to democratic regimes, and it must include the freedom to say what everyone else believes to be false, and even what many people find offensive. Without freedom, human progress will always run up against a basic roadblock.” Hence, if there is a significant restriction of the constitutionally enshrined rights to freedom of speech, expression and assembly, it will eventually lead to creating an atmosphere that is inimical to the practice of such human rights.

Moreover, as we are all living in this modern and tech-savvy world, we should always stay receptive to new ideas/opinions even if some might be offensive. This is so as to have a deeper insight into others’ way of thinking and we can thus improve ourselves from there. Only by being open to others’ criticisms and comments, then can we develop and advance further into the world, as we do not restrict ourselves to a certain boundary of expression.

However, freedom of expression might get out of hand if it is not controlled by anyone. People would thus see it as a platform for them to express their views openly, regardless of whether they have mocked or ridiculed any sacred figures. A rise of mass demonstrations as well as riots will occur and the situation will no doubt be exacerbated if the public’s interest is being challenged to a large extent.

Singapore, in particular, is a multi- racial society which consists of many different ethnic groups living together on a small island; therefore we cannot afford to have all these riots and fights occurring. So, although freedom of expression is often regarded as the most fundamental human right, it may also be the most contested. Therefore, a balance often has to be struck between free speech and competing interests.

On the other hand, I support Szilagyi’s opinion that social responsibility should be practiced and adopted, especially for Singapore. In the past, the right to freedom of expression was focused on the right to free speech within a state. It did not take into account the repercussions across national borders of the exercise of that freedom. However, today, globalization has precipitated greater diversity in the makeup of state populations through ease of mobility and the transmission of all information at greater speeds. There is thus an emerging need to take stock of the global responsibilities that come with the right to freedom of speech. Responsibilities that take into account the different cultures, histories and religions around the world.
So we should always practice Social Responsibility in any situations to prevent any misunderstanding from arising and also to avoid any unnecessary riots from occurring in a peaceful country, like Singapore.

Furthermore, just like what is mentioned by Szilagyi,” There is no doubt that freedom of speech is an essential foundation of any democracy, but when newspapers insist on this right, they have to understand that they do not- alone- create the context and lifespan of their messages”, I agree that the media should be responsible for their actions, at the same time, be mindful of other’s feelings. The application of freedom of media must take into account local circumstances and interests particular to the city-state for example: Singapore’s multi-ethnic communities; the need to promote racial harmony and create a national identity.

In light of safeguarding these values, Szilagyi’s opinion of Social Responsibility would be most suited for Singapore in order for us to stay together peacefully and harmoniously.

Labels: ~by ClaRrisa

5:22 AM