Anti-blasphemy laws, free speech and religious freedom
Proponents of speech restrictions argue that defamation of religion constitutes a human rights violation, but this is sophistry which assigns inalienable rights to concepts instead of the people who espouse them. And although anti-blasphemy apologists may claim concern for the integrity of all faiths, their lack of regard for Judaism and western religions is glaring. In fact, those who discourage critical analysis of Islam (usually progressives) generally show little respect for Jews or Christians - either in the west or in Sharia states where they and other religious and ethnic minorities are marginalized and oppressed.
Freedom of speech is taken for granted in western society, but it is an
essential right that is necessary for the perpetuation of constitutional
democracy. Unfortunately, it also seems to be an endangered species under
stealth attack by extremism masquerading as diversity and tolerance.