ThirstyFish

More hate speech during Pope Francis' visit to Philadelphia. What could be the purpose of telling thousands of Catholics who showed up to see their Pope that their religion is of the Devil?

How do you distinguish between free speech and hate speech? It depends on who you ask. Informally, hate speech "speech that attacks a person or group on the basis of attributes such as gender, ethnic origin, religion, race, disability, or sexual orientation". In law, "hate speech is [generally defined as] any speech, gesture or conduct, writing, or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or by a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group". Both these definitions are deficient.

What may informally be considered to be hate speech could be legally protected as free speech. What may be free speech could legally be considered as hate speech. Further complicating the matter is the emerging epidemic of political correctness. Here's my take: 99.9% of what's written or said is either bullshit or fluff. That said, hate speech, bullshit and fluff can not be ignored - they have negative consequences. There will always be idiots turning hate-bullshit-fluff into action. If you really believe that someone is hell-bound, how will you treat them?

For those who asked, I'm not a Roman Catholic.

Song of the Day: Only Breath - Rumi / Coleman Barks (2007)