Covert manipulation of society, if it is occurring, may be exposed by overt resistance against the suspected manipulation. In order to respond to the overt resistance, the covert elements will be forced to reveal themselves.
This is a very important reason for freedom of speech, especially "disagreeable" or objectionable speech which challenges the "norms" of society, variously labeled these days obscene or even hate.
Even a statement which is universally reviled, and at first glance society would have been better off had the statement never been spoken, may cast a light via society's response to it, revealing something previously hidden.
It may seem paranoid and conspiracy theorist, but we can argue biologically that it is not. If an institution can gain power and be in a position to remain in place (for example, by remaining covert), then it is highly likely that such an institution will come to exist. If there exists a niche for a biological organism to thrive in, it is highly likely you will find life there.
We must vigilantly guard the freedom of speech so that power remains with the people and not covert institutions.
No comments :
Post a Comment