Big Think The case for free speech (even when it’s harmful)
Oct 8, 2025
Jacob Mchangama, founder of The Future of Free Speech and a research professor at Vanderbilt, passionately defends the importance of free speech for marginalized voices. He highlights historical figures like Frederick Douglass, who used speech as a weapon against oppression. Mchangama argues that silencing hateful viewpoints undermines democracy, and that promoting open debate is crucial to combat bigotry. He warns of a 'free speech recession' influenced by technology, stressing that true equality thrives when all voices can be heard.
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Power And The Purpose Of Free Speech
- Free speech exists to let the powerless confront those in power and expose abuses.
- Jacob Mchangama argues this right is essential for petitioning government and protecting democracy.
The Free Speech Recession
- We are in a "free speech recession" as faith in free speech declines over 10–15 years.
- Jacob Mchangama links this decline to technology being repurposed for surveillance and censorship by authoritarians.
Frederick Douglass As A Case Study
- Frederick Douglass used speech to expose slavery's hypocrisy and sway public opinion.
- Jacob Mchangama highlights Douglass as proof that free speech empowers the oppressed.
