Speech and Free Speech

Just a quick recap.

Phil Robertson, of Duck Dynasty, expressed an opinion. He wasn’t jailed or fined. So far, so good. That’s free speech. That opinion was unpopular with some people. They expressed themselves. Still free speech.

Phil’s “employer”, A&E TV, decided to take Phil off the show. That’s their right. They’re a private company, and have the right to employ or not whomever.

“Free” speech has never meant “consequence-free” speech. Given the Robertson’s faith, I think they’re okay with how this has gone down so far, but it’s still breaking and we’ll see what happens. But it’s not a violation of anyone’s free speech unless and until the gov’t gets involved. So far, as far as we know, they aren’t.

I’m just grateful to live in a country where I can express my own political and religious views without being jailed, taxed, or fined for the privilege. It may not be popular or trendy, and some people might get torqued off, decide not to buy my stories or books or whatever, but that’s okay.

It’s a free country.