B2 – Upper Intermediate
Many people question whether articulating opinions today can occur without government retaliation and if this practice still aligns with its fundamental definition because it’s crucial to be able to express oneself freely without interference from institutions or groups that have the ability to restrict that freedom. It causes us to question if we truly have this right in the first place.
To learn more about the messy truth about free speech watch the video below.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “to score political points” mean? “This kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them, and doing everything they can to score political points from it.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
- What does “dangerous precedent” mean? “The FCC’s action were out of line, and this could all set a dangerous precedent for the right to free speech.” Use this term in a sentence. Give a similar expression.
- What is “widely deplored”? “It is widely deplored, but it is a permissible thing to say under American law. ” Use this phrase in a sentence and give a similar expression.
Discussion Questions:
- In the video, what kinds of free expression are discussed?
- How has free speech changed over time?
- How can we determine whether free speech has crossed the threshold into incitement?
- Do you believe that the government or institutions have the authority to limit the freedom of expression on social media? Share your insights.
- How can we ensure that our free speech is respected?