Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Ali Eteraz, an American Muslim lawyer on free speech:

His view of Dutch politician Geert Wilders:

"Wilders is a threat to liberal society. I do not believe that Wilders' views must be criminalized by the state, but they should be deemed out of the bounds of liberal society much the same way that we consider discrimination on the basis of gender unacceptable. Further, the threat of a civil and democratic discussion --- yes, the threat of a discussion --- about the criminality of his views should be left on the table as a deterrent. Our aim should be to rid liberal society of people like Wilders.

Source

Mr Eteraz contributes to Leftist organs such as the Puffington Host and The Guardian from time to time. One critique of his views is here

5 comments:

John Wheelock said...

This is absurd - no discussion should ever be beyond the bounds of public debate. Wilders' film Fitna was extremely important - people should see it before they judge it. He lets Muslim texts and actions speak for themselves and he adds none of his personal opinions. It is essential to a liberal and democratic society that well spoken criticism be allowed of anything.

http://grizzlymountain.blogspot.com/

Anonymous said...

Steven Hopkins (from 1776): Well, in all my years I ain't never heard, seen nor smelled an issue that was so dangerous it couldn't be talked about. Hell yeah! I'm for debating anything. Rhode Island says yea!

Ali Eteraz could do with a night at the movies!

Anonymous said...

Steven Hopkins......

For future reference, it is Stephen Hopkins.

Anonymous said...

Would Mr. Eteraz by any chance, be a black American convert to Islam? And why does he sound as though all of society is liberal? It is not, although it is typical of the Left to think that only they and their opinions matter!... GSP

Anonymous said...

Mr. Wilders is not a member of "Liberal society", he is a member of society. Period. As such, he is entitled to his opinion, whatever it it. Apparently, Mr. Eteraz does not share his views and so thinks that Mr. Wilders's view displays "criminality" and "is a threat to liberal society". In MY view, Mr. Eteraz is the dangerous one.