1. Threats to Human Civilization: Curtailing Free Speech
In the United States, as well as many other countries, we have seen
efforts to curtail free speech. Sometimes, the efforts come from the left,
where activists condemn “violent speech” that hurts feelings and, some
claim, facilitates injustice. On the right, some decry speech that makes
people feel bad about their country or holds them accountable for the sins
of their ancestors.
It is easy to criticize the excesses of one’s opponents, and it is often
tempting to seek banishment of the most offensive content. However, the
problem with restricting free speech is that those charged with the task
have interests of their own. In general, restricting free speech ends up
silencing those who speak truth and/or justice.
It is possible that free speech will destroy human civilization. If enough
people believe outlandish lies aimed at destroying democratic institutions,
such as a free press, free elections, and an independent judiciary, human
civilization could crumble. However, curtailing free speech will certainly
destroy human civilization. Free speech is a necessary protection against
autocrats who, once in power, censor the truth. The truth they cannot
countenance is that which exposes the corruption that makes their power
possible (by rewarding loyalists) and worthwhile (by satisfying their own
greed).
Animal agribusiness interests go to great lengths to restrict free speech
that impacts their interests. Many states have “ag-gag” laws that
criminalize undercover investigations of factory farms. Animal
agribusinesses have sought to have plant-based analogues of animal products
renamed. Claiming that applying terms like “sausage” and “burger” to
plant-based foods “confuses” the public, they want to ban such labeling,
even though packaging on plant-based foods typically emphasize that their
products do not derive from animals. In addition to impeding efforts to
protect nonhumans, they easily apply to other critics of the “powers and
principalities” (Ephesians 6:12).
Stephen R. Kaufman, MD
2. From All-Creatures.Org Ministry
Peace be with you! We hope your preparations for next week’s cruelty-free
Thanksgiving are going well and that you enjoy this week’s newsletter. It is
filled with helpful vegan, faith-based, and animal rights information to
keep you up to date with all that is going on. There are plenty of turkey
resources in this week’s edition to share with your friends as well!
All-Creatures.org
Newsletter for
November 16, 2022
In the Love of the Lord,
Frank L Hoffman
All-Creatures.org
and
Kindness,
Tams Nicholson
Executive Directress
All-Creatures.org