Listened to an interesting debate on CNN today about religious values and the first amendment. It was centered around statement by Pope Francis on whether he meant to say we should limit free speech when it comes to religion. Religious leaders from three faiths participated: catholic, jewish and muslim. Interesting points made by each religious leader. Take a look at it on CNN online. I thought the rabbi made the most interesting points: it was a Jewish lawyer who defended the nazi sympathizers in the famous Skokie case. He was repulsed by his clients statements and actions, but he wanted to defend EVERYONE'S right to say what they believed or thought (with some exceptions like yelling fire in a theater). He also stated that we can defend the publication Charlie right to publish the cartoons but we do not have to look at the cartoons or buy the magazine. However, I also read an interesting article in today's NY Times about France's debate on Muslim confrontation with French culture and governmental doctrines. The argument being made there that Muslims need to "fit" into French culture, not the other way around (note that I avoided using the French phrase). Goes to argument that culture drives politics, art, etc., and that our culture defines who we are as a nation. Should we begin to limit our first amendment rights to fight terrorism? Should we allow more warrantless searches of suspected terrorists? Should we limit harsh and grossly offensive speech about religions, religious leaders or religious beliefs? Lots and lots of questions and more debate on this topic will occur in coming months.
More on all this later.