A brief guide to freedom of speech by Nigel Warburton.
This very short introduction addresses the value and limits of free speech in modern societies. The author discusses philosophical arguments and current issues, such as the role of the internet and possible censorship, including the right to offend and the prohibition on incitement to violence.
Contents
‘I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it’ — this Voltaire quote illustrates the importance of freedom of speech, but also the dilemmas surrounding it. Warburton explores where the boundaries lie in a free society, with attention to religious sensitivities, pornography, and the impact of digital media. This very short introduction book is accessible and up to date, and helps to deepen understanding of freedom and the limits of free speech.
Product information
- Author: Nigel Warburton (Senior Lecturer in Philosophy, The Open University)
- Series: Very Short Introductions
- Publisher: Oxford University Press
- Publication date: 26 February 2009
- Number of pages: 128
- ISBN: 9780199232352
- Subject: Human rights, civil rights
- BISAC: POLITICAL SCIENCE / Human Rights
About the author
Nigel Warburton is a Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at The Open University and the author of various philosophical works. Among other things, he teaches aesthetics courses at Tate Modern and is a co-founder of the popular podcast Philosophy Bites.