Free Speech, a human right that is claimed by many radicals as necessary for a country to grow. But is it true? They believe that by censoring free speech, it is violating the principles of democracy while others feel that social responsibility should be emphasised instead. However, what is to become of Singapore if free speech is exercised?
Personally, I feel that free speech should come after education. Certain level of maturity and social responsibility is needed before a country can become truly exercise freedom of speech. Education will let people's mind to develope and become more aware of the consequences of their own speech. In the context of Singapore, racial remarks are very sensitive in the nation and it should be taken seriously. The history of Singapore is embroiled with racial tensions and hence, any insensitive comment made by anyone may cause another racial riot which will impede the development of its economy as well as jeopardise the social security.
People who disagree that social responsibility should come before free speech should consider the consequences brought by people who make senseless and irresponsible comments. In year 2005, a student made a sweeping comment and targets a certain race. It created an uproar among religious committees and once again threatens the peace of Singapore. No one can guarantee that no person will post any irresponsible comment randomly and therefore, we must educate the people to differentiate constructive comments from gibberish.
In conclusion, education is not only important in teaching people what they should write as well as telling from right and wrong. No one can guarantee everyone will be socially responsible and no one can stop anyone from making a comment given this current state of technology. Hence, censorship is useless to stop this problem. Singapore, where there is cultural and religious pluralism should hence emphasise on social responsibility. However as stated above, no one can guarantee that everyone will be socially responsible, government should educate the people as education allows people to have a more open mind and look at things in an objective manner. Social responsibility can only do this much and the rest will be up to the people to judge what is right and what is wrong.
Personally, I feel that free speech should come after education. Certain level of maturity and social responsibility is needed before a country can become truly exercise freedom of speech. Education will let people's mind to develope and become more aware of the consequences of their own speech. In the context of Singapore, racial remarks are very sensitive in the nation and it should be taken seriously. The history of Singapore is embroiled with racial tensions and hence, any insensitive comment made by anyone may cause another racial riot which will impede the development of its economy as well as jeopardise the social security.
People who disagree that social responsibility should come before free speech should consider the consequences brought by people who make senseless and irresponsible comments. In year 2005, a student made a sweeping comment and targets a certain race. It created an uproar among religious committees and once again threatens the peace of Singapore. No one can guarantee that no person will post any irresponsible comment randomly and therefore, we must educate the people to differentiate constructive comments from gibberish.
In conclusion, education is not only important in teaching people what they should write as well as telling from right and wrong. No one can guarantee everyone will be socially responsible and no one can stop anyone from making a comment given this current state of technology. Hence, censorship is useless to stop this problem. Singapore, where there is cultural and religious pluralism should hence emphasise on social responsibility. However as stated above, no one can guarantee that everyone will be socially responsible, government should educate the people as education allows people to have a more open mind and look at things in an objective manner. Social responsibility can only do this much and the rest will be up to the people to judge what is right and what is wrong.
