The Battle for Free Speech
Intellectual Underpinnings of Free Expression and Its Vital Role in Societal Progress; Greg Lukianoff and Sam Harris
The podcast conversation posted yesterday between Greg Lukianoff (BIO) (President and CEO of F.I.R.E. and author of Freedom of Speech and co-author of The Coddling of the American Mind and The Cancelling of the American Mind) and Sam Harris on the "Making Sense" platform (HERE) was a poignant reminder of the fundamental importance of free speech in a thriving society. As one of the foremost experts on freedom of expression, Lukianoff provided a compelling historical context and philosophical framework for understanding the ongoing battles surrounding this essential liberty.
I believe that encroachments against freedom of speech have been one of the key reasons that surveys are showing such pessimism about the future. Lukianoff is pointing out here that this pessimism is warranted in the near term, but protecting and nurturing free speech is likely to reward society in the long run. This perspective resonates with the core mission of "Exploring Prosperity," which aims to uncover the principles and practices that foster enduring economic and societal progress.
Lukianoff drew a striking parallel between the invention of the printing press and the advent of social media, both of which empowered individuals with the ability to rapidly disseminate ideas on an unprecedented scale. Just as authorities grappled with the newfound reality of uncontrolled information flow during the printing press era, preceding conflicts and the devastating Thirty Years' War, we are witnessing similar struggles today as the digital age challenges traditional gatekeepers of information.
However, as Lukianoff eloquently pointed out, the costs of suppressing free expression are far greater than embracing it. The progress that followed the eventual acceptance of the printing press was nothing short of explosive, as knowledge and ideas spread rapidly, fueling advancements in various fields. This historical lesson underscores the vital role of free speech in driving societal progress, innovation, and the pursuit of truth.
Moreover, Lukianoff's insights shed light on the intellectual foundations of the First Amendment, which enshrined the sovereignty of the individual and separated the United States' political system from others that came before it. This principle has been a cornerstone of America's rise to economic and political leadership over the past two and a half centuries, and its erosion could have profound consequences for the nation's future.
A marketplace for ideas…