Undoubtedly. Otherwise, why would one even bother to talk about freedom of speech? If someone or something is found to be offensive, then freedom of speech should allow that to be expressed. The defense should not be held back from causing offence in turn.
Simple etiquette and common sense should dictate, however, that personal attacks, e.g. you are an idiot, should be replaced by attacks on the impersonal, e.g. your statement is idiotic because …
If someone or something is found to be offensive, …
That’s the thing. Nothing is offensive unless it is found to be offensive. And nothing can prevent people from being offended if they choose.
Another question,
should freedom of speech include a freedom to lie?
Undoubtedly. Otherwise, why would one even bother to talk about freedom of speech? If someone or something is found to be offensive, then freedom of speech should allow that to be expressed. The defense should not be held back from causing offence in turn.
Simple etiquette and common sense should dictate, however, that personal attacks, e.g. you are an idiot, should be replaced by attacks on the impersonal, e.g. your statement is idiotic because …
That’s the thing. Nothing is offensive unless it is found to be offensive. And nothing can prevent people from being offended if they choose.
Another question,
should freedom of speech include a freedom to lie?