Michael Smith in the community

Free Speech OK, But OJ Simpson?

We restrict certain forms of expression that we deem too offensive or inappropriate; hate speech, pornography, slander. All have limitations that run contrary to an absolute freedom of expression, but we generally tolerate that modest infringement of one person’s rights in order to protect other people’s rights not to be assaulted by offensive or defamatory material.

Isn’t there a similar justification to keep OJ Simpson off the airwaves and out of the book stores? Fox television will air “If I Did It, Here’s How It Happened” in advance of a book Simpson is about to introduce. I’m not exactly offended, but I’m disappointed that Fox will facilitate Simpson’s quest for the spotlight. I recognize Simpson’s freedom of speech, but his attempt to profit from his infamy is galling.

I hope that the legal judgments against Simpson are able to siphon any profits away from this endeavor, and I hope viewers will tune-out Fox’s offering.


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Comment from Xpovos:

Fox withdrew the program, O.J. keeps the money. You win some, you lose some.


Posted by Xpovos    Nov 28, 02:31 PM    #

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