Press freedom or abuse of freedom?

Press freedom or abuse of freedom?

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PHILIPPINE REPORTER’S OPINION SURVEY

(This issue’s second Opinion Survey conducted by The Philippine Reporter writer and digital journalist Mark A. Cadiz. The first one is about the Pope’s visit to the Philippines. See homepage.)
Charlie Hebdo killings and the debate about the freedom of the press vs. abuse of freedom. Where do we draw the line?

DR. MARILLEA YU

“Charlie Hebdo was an easy and obvious target and the attacks have opened up the question of free speech vs. abuse of freedom in journalism. Journalists have the responsibility to report news, the truth and maintain freedom of speech. Abuse of this freedom occurs when material deliberately designed to insult, promote and incite hate is published and distributed under the claim of ‘free speech.’”
— Dr. Marillea Yu, Naturopathic Doctor, Ontario

EDUARDO LIMA

“I believe that the Charlie Hebdo attacks showed the double standards of the western media regarding the treatment of different religions. Muslims are frequent targets of offense and criticisms that would be labeled as, for example, anti-Semite if the same kind of comments were aimed at Jewish individuals or symbols. Whatever is the outcome of this debate I believe the line should be drawn at the same place and consistent for everyone, respecting, or not, all religions equally.”
— Eduardo Lima, Photojournalist, Ontario

BEN PETERSON

“Draw the line?  There is no line. Press freedom wins a hundred times out of a hundred. “Abuse of freedom” arguments have been used for centuries by corrupt forces to suppress their enemies. Yes, the press can be irresponsible and offensive. But I’m one who will fight for the right to be offensive.  To do otherwise is far more dangerous.”
— Ben Peterson, Founder of Newsana and JHR, Ontario

GOLDA FERRER

“Contrary…they hide under the freedom of speech protection to hurt, slander and create new controversy. And for what? Critical thought? No, to create stir.
“Opinions are opinions. I do think slander is one form of negative opinion and very dangerous when published for public discussion.”
— Golda Ferrer, Business Owner, Manitoba

JOIE ANN MERANA

“Despite Charlie Hebdo claiming their work is under “freedom of speech,” they clearly have pushed past boundaries that no longer became journalism but rather produced something that can be seen as a sort of mockery and a form of disrespect. Yet, both sides have produced acts that are considered hateful or disrespectful. In this way, the line between victim and the antagonist blends together.  However, regardless of the things the magazine has published, death should not be in the hands of anyone to decide as a form of punishment or as a defence to ‘correct those that have been wronged.’”
— Joie Ann Merana, University of Toronto Graduate

KEVAN SENG

“I would say we should not focus on drawing a line about the freedom of press but rather focus on how certain abuse of freedoms can lead to unfavorable outcomes.  If you’re going to knock a religion, group, or government, just know that by publishing your name next to that article that you may have some difficulties after doing so.  In this age of easy-to-access information, anyone can find your information when it is published, so, just be mindful of that.”
— Kevan Seng, Art Dealer, British Columbia

“I feel they (Muslims) are too sensitive to any comments about them or their religion…

KEITH OSBORNE

“I feel that freedom of speech needs to be protected against these weak souls who cannot even take a damn joke. I have spent the majority of my adult life abroad and people have things to say about me/USA and I never shot up an office full of people.

“I feel that anytime freedom is granted there will be abuse of that freedom. Without the abuse the freedom could not exist. Some communities in France are more sensitive than others and I feel it should not stop freedom of speech or press. I feel that the action taken against the publishing of the cartoon is not merited and should not stop freedom of speech. Lighten up France!”
—Keith Osborne, ESL Teacher Malaysia / U.S.

IAN W.

“We must be careful not to overreact and end up stifling criticism and even ridicule. We need to listen respectfully when there are those that feel offended, and question ourselves, but “free” speech already has legal restrictions against death threats, hate speech and inciting violence.
“Ironically, reactions and policy changes that erode freedoms are stated as being in defense of freedom, following alleged terrorist attacks. Foreign military actions–overt and covert–need to be seen as being inextricably linked to extremism… as well as polarization by media. The focus on freedom of speech as though it is the main or only issue in such a complex matter is like viewing some individuals as representative of an entire demographic.”
— Ian W. Art Director, Quebec