It should be repeatedly publicized that every slight infringement on freedom of speech is an intellectual disaster. Why? Freedom of speech allows for the best ideas to rise to the top. Freedom of speech does not exist so that everybody can get their say in, although that is a consequence of that freedom. It exists so that a free exchange of ideas can occur. When that happens, a free people can determine the best course of action. Limiting the free exchange of ideas limits a people’s options, resulting in crippled societies similar to what you see, in say, the Middle East.

From a religious perspective, freedom of speech is necesary if one wants to review all options. it is necessary if one wants to understand the strengths and weaknesses of any religion. More importantly, if one wants to be saved and live eternally with God, then he must be free to examine all religions critically as he searches for the truth. Without criticism, there is no search for truth.

If there were ever a religion in need of strong, even fierce, criticism, it is Islam.