Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps cover image

Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps

"Hate Speech or Free Speech?" with Prof. Alan Davison

Mar 3, 2025
In a riveting discussion, Alan Davison, the incoming president of Australia's Free Speech Union and former Dean of Social Sciences, dives into the complexities of free speech and hate speech laws in Australia. He argues that addressing hate speech might mask deeper societal issues like bigotry and ignorance. The conversation touches on the responsibilities of artists facing political pressures, the delicate balance between civility and free expression, and the pressing need for open dialogue about race, identity, and gender in an increasingly polarized world.
02:15:40

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The challenge of balancing free speech with societal safety emerges as Australia debates new hate speech laws amidst rising antisemitism.
  • The disinvitation of artist Khaled Sabsabi reflects the tensions between artistic freedom and political accountability in contemporary cultural discussions.

Deep dives

The Question of Managing Dangerous Ideas

A critical discussion arises around how a free society should address hyper-dangerous ideas, particularly those that promote hate, such as neo-Nazism. Historically, responses to bad ideas involved countering them with better ideas, but this approach is being challenged. There is a growing debate about whether it is acceptable for a civilized, multicultural society to impose stricter limits on hate speech than what is traditionally permitted, especially considering current societal sentiments. Australia is currently navigating this complex landscape at both federal and state levels, highlighting an ongoing struggle between free speech and the need for societal safety.

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