The Brian Lehrer Show 'Free Speech For Me, But Not For Thee'
9 snips
Sep 24, 2025 
Greg Lukianoff, an attorney and CEO of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, dives into the complexities of free speech in today’s polarized climate. He discusses how both political sides weaponize speech regulations and examines rising censorship among students. Lukianoff critiques the treatment of hate speech under U.S. law and emphasizes the power dynamics in academia. He advocates for radical open-mindedness to bridge divides and warns against the chilling effect of public shaming on employment.
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FIRE's Expanded Mission
- FIRE expanded in 2022 to defend free expression beyond campuses because threats moved into wider society.
- Greg Lukianoff says demand for their work has increased as speech conflicts grew nationwide.
Hypocrisy Across The Political Spectrum
- Lukianoff notes Trump initially issued pro-speech statements but soon adopted the same tactics he criticized.
- He argues targeting law firms, higher ed, and media shows the right now weaponizes speech restrictions.
Students' Growing Support For Censorship
- FIRE's survey finds rising support among students for censoring controversial speakers and even violence in some cases.
- Lukianoff warns that roughly one-third of students say violence can sometimes be acceptable against speakers.
