Im back in Oxford in the wake of horrible attacks in France, and also, it now seems, in Nigeria. These events evidently disturb, and raise many questions. Here are some of my (comparatively belated) thoughts. To be honest, like many I have often remained slightly cynical about Facebook waves of goodwill. In relation to the Charlie Hebdo attacks, I do think, however, its done some good in demonstrating the encouraging unity that, despite some shameful victim-blaming sentiments, is nevertheless widespread. Nothing gets to my core like attacks aimed at the expression of opinion and belief, no matter how controverial or, to some, offensive that expression is. In the days after the attacks, I have come to remember one of the reasons why someone like Christopher Hitchens so deeply inspired and continues to inspire me. His unapologetic defence of free speech always got to me; it embodied the very essence of the liberal ambition of tolerance of those who think differently. But Facebook campaigns and marches are ephemeral. When the profile pictures have been changed back, and people have gone back to work, what will stop the gradual chilling of speech - the growth of hesitancy in editorial offices, the lingering fear in back of the head of the satirist? I dont know what will, but certainly not statements like No one should be killed for what they write, but [insert disagreement with/dislike of Charlie Hebdo]. And how many of those who say they stand with Charlie Hebdo will next week be calling for the extension of hate speech laws, for social or legal campaigns to quiet those with the wrong, unenlightened views? Of those who think differently? Too, too many, I fear.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 10:01:22 +0000
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