I agree. It’s quite possible to say the most vile things using unemotional words that do not rile up people.
Jonathan Swift’s “A modest proposal” perfected that art way back in 1729.
But using emotive words to segregate society into tribes through signalling to induce xenophobia… that is not about speech at all.
And one could argue that politicians and journalists should have a lot of leeway, since their job involves shaping the public opinion.
But credentialed professionals should be held to a higher standard to ensure people can trust scientists, medical practitioners, engineers and lawyers.
In other words, if Jordan Peterson wants to give back his academic credentials and transition to becoming just another talking head, he is free to do so.
But if he wants to keep those credentials, he has to carry the burden of that responsibility.
I agree. It’s quite possible to say the most vile things using unemotional words that do not rile up people.
Jonathan Swift’s “A modest proposal” perfected that art way back in 1729.
But using emotive words to segregate society into tribes through signalling to induce xenophobia… that is not about speech at all.
And one could argue that politicians and journalists should have a lot of leeway, since their job involves shaping the public opinion.
But credentialed professionals should be held to a higher standard to ensure people can trust scientists, medical practitioners, engineers and lawyers.
In other words, if Jordan Peterson wants to give back his academic credentials and transition to becoming just another talking head, he is free to do so.
But if he wants to keep those credentials, he has to carry the burden of that responsibility.