Richard Dawkins cancelled by fellow atheists

[Brave New World]

Originally Posted by crewship

That's stupid. Not being allowed your own personal stage at a university isn't bein denied "free speech". Does that mean I can sue any British university that doesn't give me a podium?

If you read it properly it's designed to allow speakers from all sides of the political and ideological debate instead of Universities or Students Unions de-platforming people, which often happens at the last moment.

It also stops speakers being prevented from speaking because they are from Israel or for other discriminatory reasons.

The articles also offer examples of de-platforming and it also makes clear the need for all views to be heard and not just those of any one political group.

Not allowing someone to speak because you disagree with their politics can never be allowed, and it's generally aimed at those invited to speak at Universities, only for pressure to be laterr exerted to de-platform them, and many of these individuals are often highly regarded academic, writers, political figures, scientists etc etc.

There is also a new regulator being set up with the aim of overseeing the process and to ensure students and speakers have the right to free speech. The regulator will be able to take action, and fine institutions, and individuals whose free speech has been prevented by de-platforming can of course take legal recourse, as is their right.

[Brave New World]

Originally Posted by crewship

I think it's 100% a school's own prerogative who they decide to allow to speak. It's called freedom of association and goes hand in hand with freedom of speech. And not being allowed a podium at a university is not a violation of your freedom of speech, no matter how famous you are. Period. No one is owed a platform. Universities are institutions of learning. If a flat-earth society is invited to speak by some student group and then gets cancelled for preaching rhetoric antithetical to the principles of science, should they be given restitution for being denied their "rights"? Clearly the University is just persecuting them for having the wrong opinion! I don't think so.

I don't think you understand the concept of free speech, and banning speakers, banning newspaper, student societies and even fancy dress.

The idea that speakers are restricted that blasphemy is even not allowed, and that healthy open debate can not take place.

Universities have always been places were ideas and free speech have been important, and these new laws ensure that this continues.

It should be noted that 99% of the Universities in the UK are public and funded by the tax payer, and they must reflect the views of society and respect the right to free speech.

Student groups are allowed to invite speakers, as are Universities however in recent years other groups have opposed speakers who don't adhere to their own political agenda, even though they do not have to listen to them speak.

Universities should not be ruled by violent left wing agitators, and nor should they dictate who gets to speak.

At last an end to student snowflakes stifling free speech as universities clamp down on censorship - The Sun

[Rocko20]

It makes perfect sense.

If you can change your sex, then you can change your race.

Race is a social construct, sex is not.