"That said, the question remains: how to strike the balance between free speech and mutual respect in this mixed-up world, both blessed and cursed with instant communication? We should not fight fire with fire, threats with threats"
- Timothy Garton Ash
About this Quote
This quote by Timothy Garton Ash speaks to the obstacle of locating a balance between cost-free speech and also common regard in a world of instantaneous communication. He suggests that we should not react to threats with more threats, however instead locate a means to strike an equilibrium in between both. This is a difficult task, as cost-free speech is a fundamental right, while regard is important for a functioning society. It is important to remember that we can disagree without being disagreeable, and that we should make every effort to find a means to express our opinions without infringing on the civil liberties of others. We should additionally bear in mind the power of our words, and the potential for them to cause damage. Eventually, it is up to us to find a method to interact with each various other in such a way that is respectful and also permits cost-free expression.