Insert Subject Here
Can you insult someone in a forum such as myspace or this space, or any public forum then try to claim that your rights are protected by freedom of speech?
Legally, I think, as long as you do no actual damage to a person's career or otherwise ruin their reputation to a certain extent you can speak your peace.
BUT, does that make it right? I don't think so.. I don't think there is a forum where it is okay to be totally unkind. The courts might find it tasteless but won't do anything. So, how do you protect yourself?
I guess try to be as fair as possible. Do you disagree with someone? That's cool.. their idea may be dumb in YOUR eyes but that doesn't make the person behind the idea dumb. (Replace the word dumb with any suitable word for the topic.) Make sure you comment and it's known that it's your own opinion. Afterall, we all have opinions. Sometimes, they are wrong. (Mine ~coughchokecough~ are always right I'm sure.)
Otherwise, try not to give anyone a reason to speak badly of you but it'll happen probably so try to have a tough skin.
On the other hand, before you publish in a public forum unkind comments about another person ask yourself one question... How would you feel if someone did it to you. Are you so perfect that you can judge another? If you think you are then you are wrong .. so much for being perfect. We all have flaws and faults. We all make mistakes. Understand that and forgive it.
And one other thing. When you read things here you do not hear very important aspects of what is said.. Tone, inflection, intention. You can say something completely tongue in cheek but to see it in writing it will look very bad just about every time.
So, if you ever see something you disagree with on my blog.. that's cool. But if it hurts you, PLEASE tell me because that is never my intention. I like a good debate I don't like to upset anyone. Always feel free to ask for clarification.
