AbstractsLanguage, Literature & Linguistics

Freedom of Speech: The M Word

by Line Reichhardt




Institution: Roskilde University
Department:
Year: 2015
Keywords: Freedom of speech; Muhammad Cartoons
Posted: 02/05/2017
Record ID: 2113694
Full text PDF: http://rudar.ruc.dk/handle/1800/24467


Abstract

The first objective of the project is to show how freedom of speech and democracy are dependent on one another in Denmark. The project’s next focal point is to look at how freedom of speech was framed in relation to the Mohammed publications in 2005. To do this, it identifies how freedom of speech was used by many Danish and European newspapers to justify the publications. Arguments against the publications by both the Danish media and the Muslim community (within Denmark and abroad) are also dis cussed to show the other side of the debate. Another central concern is to show how differentiating cultural values (such as the right to free expression) can create conflicting interpretations on contemporary issues. Furthermore, it attempts to show how t hese differences between cultures can result in violent conflicts. This is done in the third working question of the analysis chapter through Samuel Huntington's clash of civilisations paradigm. Finally, the project concludes that freedom of speech is a co mplex phenomena and that, as seen during 2005 cartoon controversy, certain assumptions about the nature of freedom of speech are challenged through differentiating views. Advisors/Committee Members: Thualagant, Nicole (advisor).