More about the sheepskin of liberalism

Recently there were multiple incidents that in one way or the other brought forth the discussion on freedom of expression. Penguin pulping Wendy Doniger's book, massacre of the french cartoonists, protests against the Tamil novel Madhorubagan, Mohan Bhagawat's speech about Mother Teresa and the documentary 'India's daughter' were some of those. What was fascinating was the fact that many who defended the freedom of expression fiercely in some of the cases were not so liberal when it came to some other issue. I am not talking about everyone. There are some true liberals who are consistent with their views. But there were many who wore the liberal skin when the issue at hand did not offend them. But when it came to their own sacred cows, they were aghast at the lack of taste and sensibility of the offender. Then the issue transports itself from the freedom of expression space to the space of basic decency, good taste and sometimes plain simple sensitivity.

Here is liberalism redefined: I defend your freedom of expression and your freedom to offend others. Please note the word 'others' - Not 'everyone', just 'others'.

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