Re: NO Neo-Nazis on Usenet!

["Terry West" <WEST@EDU-SUU-CENTRUM.CN.SUU.EDU>]

I agree with much of the below; especially Mr. Dove's argument that 
trying to silence the skinheads won't work.  They thrive on playing 
the martyr.  However, as I understand it, there's not necessarily a 
first amendment issue here; the first amendment restricts only 
GOVERNMENT from imposing restrictions on free speech.  Private groups 
may try to censor one another; see MPAA on movies, new ratings on tv, 
religious groups who choose to restrict what their 
followers/officials say, etc.  

That being said, my own opinion is that the best way to combat racism 
is to confront it and bring it into full view.  That way, we can show 
the world what true idiots these people are.

Terry West
Southern Utah

> Date sent:      Tue, 4 Mar 1997 18:36:14 -0500 (EST)
> Send reply to:  ad52@columbia.edu
> From:           Alan Dove <ad52@columbia.edu>
> To:             Issues concerning CEDA Debate  <CEDA-L@cornell.edu>
> Subject:        Re: NO Neo-Nazis on Usenet!
> Originally to:  David Rhaesa <race@midusa.net>

> Hey, folks:
> 
> In no way do I endorse, support, or otherwise favor the beliefs of
> neo-Nazis, skinheads, or any other racist group.
> 
> However, I also oppose restrictions on free speech, even if these
> restrictions are arrived at by a majority vote.  Remember, the First
> Amendment specifically protects unpopular speech.  Unless someone is
> specifically harassing or targeting an individual, or communicating to
> organize a criminal activity of some sort (such as an assault, robbery, or
> bombing), I don't see why they should be stopped.  I find their message
> repugnant, but I'm not sure that trying to silence it is an acceptable
> response.
> 
> Next, realize that anyone can create a newsgroup in the "alt." hierarchy
> without any kind of vote.  You just need several folks who are in favor of
> such a group, and there it is.  This attempt to prevent formation of a
> skinhead newsgroup will, therefore, fail if they really want to do it.
> 
>           --Alan
> 
> __________________ 
> Alan Dove
> N3IMU
> ad52@columbia.edu
> http://128.59.173.136/Poliolab/Alan/Dove.html
> 
>

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• Re: NO Neo-Nazis on Usenet!
• From: Alan Dove <ad52@columbia.edu>
• Re: NO Neo-Nazis on Usenet!
• From: MTSU Debate <debate@frank.mtsu.edu>

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