Date of Award
Spring 5-2-2020
Document Type
Honors Project
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Classics, Philosophy, and Religion
Department Chair or Program Director
Romero, Joseph M.
First Advisor
Vasey, Craig
Major or Concentration
Philosophy (Pre-Law Concentration)
Abstract
This is a two-part project on freedom of speech and the internet. The first analyzes methodological approaches to the free speech debate. John Stuart Mill’s theory of free speech outlined in his book, On Liberty, is summarized. After establishing his idea of the “marketplace of ideas,” several objections to Mill’s theory are explored, focusing on various types of speech that undermine the principles of truth-seeking. The part concludes that, despite these objections, an open dialogue where actors seek truth is a worthy goal and limiting the effects of the objections presented should be pursued The second part analyzes contemporary issues of free speech on the internet. Several examples of the types of speech undermining truth-seeking are put in the context of the internet. Afterwards, the paper seeks a policy solution that boosts productive discussion on the web. Having considered problems with internet regulation, including critical media literacy in primary and secondary school curriculum is advocated.
Recommended Citation
Huebler, John, "Free Speech and the Internet" (2020). Student Research Submissions. 338.
https://scholar.umw.edu/student_research/338