- Joined
- Jan 4, 2013
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In most ways we are more free than ever. Yes, we are less free to do business without restrictions, but that also protects our rights as neighbors and consumers and workers to avoid being harmed by faulty products, to know the ingredients of the food and medicine we buy, to work in safe conditions, to access (relatively) clean air and water and to seek recourse when a business cheats or harms us.
Legally, and theoretically, we have more freedom of expression than ever before due to the de facto reduction of government censorship, although the laws and case law granting the government the ability to censor erotic materials remain on the books. The monpolization of the media and its distribution channels has made the ability to have your expression actually reach an audience without being rejected or censored by a media owner more difficult. The internet has somewhat counteracted that trend. Some government practices such as "free speech zones" at major events and related forms of suppression of public protests (often illegal in my opinion) also curtail our right to be heard, although it is hard to accurately compare the relative freedom of today's situation with past practices which also curtailed the right to protest. In the past you might get arrested or beaten for protesting, now you are forced to do your protest in a place where no one will see you. Which is worse?
Our right to privacy has been steadily shrinking. That is due to technology, bad court decisions and business practices.
The application of science and technology, especially medical and sanitary advances, by both government and business has given us many new freedoms. We no longer have to be concerned about polio, leprosy, heat stroke (as long as you aren't a farm worker and can afford an air conditioner), bear attacks, contaminated foor and water and many other threats.
Legally, and theoretically, we have more freedom of expression than ever before due to the de facto reduction of government censorship, although the laws and case law granting the government the ability to censor erotic materials remain on the books. The monpolization of the media and its distribution channels has made the ability to have your expression actually reach an audience without being rejected or censored by a media owner more difficult. The internet has somewhat counteracted that trend. Some government practices such as "free speech zones" at major events and related forms of suppression of public protests (often illegal in my opinion) also curtail our right to be heard, although it is hard to accurately compare the relative freedom of today's situation with past practices which also curtailed the right to protest. In the past you might get arrested or beaten for protesting, now you are forced to do your protest in a place where no one will see you. Which is worse?
Our right to privacy has been steadily shrinking. That is due to technology, bad court decisions and business practices.
The application of science and technology, especially medical and sanitary advances, by both government and business has given us many new freedoms. We no longer have to be concerned about polio, leprosy, heat stroke (as long as you aren't a farm worker and can afford an air conditioner), bear attacks, contaminated foor and water and many other threats.
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