+108 Americans: because we all have freedoms of speech and opinion, we must be able to "tolerate" even those we strongly disagree with (for example, most of us disagree with homophobes). People can hold whatever opinions they want, even if we find them disgusting or bigoted. Only when it comes to one's __actions__ which violate the rights/dignity of others can we truly fight against them, amirite?

by Anonymous 11 years ago

I agree with the tolerance part, but people's beliefs and words can cause serious harm as well. That's why death threats can be severely punished, and certain nonviolent protests are required to be a certain minimum distance away from an event or location (like WBC's funeral pickets).

by Anonymous 11 years ago

But making a death threat is an action. Thinking that so-and-so would be better off dead is one thing, but acting a\upon those thoughts in any way is definitely wrong.

by Anonymous 11 years ago

Oh, that's a good point. Consider that statement recanted, then. Thanks for the clarification

by Anonymous 11 years ago

Why has this been restricted to Americans?

by Anonymous 11 years ago

I agree it could apply to canada, European countries and more

by Anonymous 11 years ago

Because it's Murica. Freedom is kind of our thing.

by Anonymous 11 years ago