TRIGGERnometry The Lessons of Batley Grammar - Andrew Doyle
Apr 26, 2024
Andrew Doyle, a prominent writer and commentator, discusses the fiery Batley Grammar School incident, where a teacher faced severe backlash for showing controversial content. He dives into the implications for free speech, arguing for robust defenses against self-censorship and the inadequacies in addressing death threats. Doyle emphasizes the delicate balance between freedom of speech and protest rights, stressing the importance of upholding liberal values in an increasingly authoritarian atmosphere.
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Batley Grammar School Incident
- A teacher at Batley Grammar School showed cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad in a religious studies lesson on blasphemy.
- After complaints and death threats, the teacher went into hiding and remains so three years later.
Societal Failure in Defending Free Speech
- Society's response to the Batley Grammar School incident reveals a concerning lack of defense for free speech.
- Authorities failed to adequately protect the teacher, and there was no significant pushback against the protestors.
Cancel Culture and Self-Censorship
- Dame Sarah Kahn's report highlights the growing problem of cancel culture and self-censorship in the UK.
- The Batley Grammar School incident is cited as a prime example of mishandling such situations.
