Free speech: its value & its limits
It feels natural to be in favour of free speech. Defending it is a hallmark of civilised, democratic society.
But why? What's the advantage of defending to the death people's right to publish deliberately insulting cartoons or to circulate vile pornography?
Perhaps some of those things don't count as free speech. If so, how are we drawing the line? We'll look at practical examples, some geared towards faith and belief. That could include Charlie Hebdo or the legal ruling against a Belfast bakery that refused, on religous grounds, to bake a cake with a pro-gay slogan.
Whet your appetite with this 2-minute video from Nigel Warburton, author of Free Speech: A Very Short Introduction.
But that's not all. The free speech discussion, led with handouts, quizzes and thought-provoking questions by our very own Peter White, is just one of the potential items on our fun-packed agenda.
The session as a whole is one of our much-loved, magazine-style,"share and enjoy" afternoons. That means anyone and everyone is invited to bring a topic, an article, a thought to share and discuss. Tell the secretary if you want to circulate material in advance or show a video or something.
Everyone welcome - existing fans, newcomers and the simply curious.
The Garden Room at Great Meeting Chapel on Saturday 30 April 2.30 - 4.30 pm
Doors open, with drinks available, from 2.00 pm
The chapel is at 5 East Bond Street, Leicester, LE1 4SX (just across the road from John Lewis). There is a small (free) car park. A donation of £3 per person covers room hire and other costs.
For more information, use the contact details on the right. We're very friendly.
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