Free Speech

In reply to James K. Hahn, our esteemed city attorney (letter, June 9), I’d like to point out that the enemies of free speech and the free press are fond of citing “lurid examples” to turn us away from our guaranteed constitutional rights. They say, “Yes, of course, free speech, but this thing goes beyond the bounds of . . ., etc.”

The problem with this is so many people have their own particular and personal hang-ups, leading to a far-ranging litany of “lurid examples.” One man’s free speech is another’s “lurid example.” And this is why I believe our Founding Fathers, in their infinite wisdom, put no reservations on freedom of speech or freedom of the press.

Our freedom of speech and press was never meant to safeguard “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” or “Pollyanna.” Those things need no protection.

The precepts of free speech and press were meant to safeguard those things which might seem offensive to certain people, and being offended or even disgusted is a lesser imposition than the abrogation of those rights which make this a free country.

Should a person have the right to yell “Fire!” in a crowded theater? Reluctantly I’d have to say yes. Because the potential harm is far less than giving up our rights to a free society.

BILL IDELSON

Pacific Palisades