All of us are living on the same planet but in individual countries, influenced by particular cultures and heritage. For example in singapore, we are mounted with people of different races and religions. It is inevitably to have some conflicts and discords going on due to many argumentative reasons, especially when it comes to a multiracial nation such as singapore. In order to coexist harmoniously, we have to learn to accept and be sensitive towards the different beliefs and cultures of others.



After reading the 2 articles, i personally think that szilagyi's approach should be adopted in the context of Singapore. " There is no doubt that freedom of speech is an essential foundaiton for any democracy. But when newspaper insist on this right, they have to understand that they do not-alone-create the context and lifespan of their messages. " I totally agree with that sane statement. Any insensitive or unthoughtful decisions made by governments or an authorities will trigger a big load of racial issues such as racial riots, strikes, and even lawsuits,etc. Hence ,everyone should have be very clear of their "counterpart" cultures and practices so as to avoid any unnecessary mistakes, be it in a casual speech or in daily behaviour.



I still recalled the 1964 race riots whereby communal feelings are being stirred up. the past history has taught us something and that is , there is only a thin line between different racial groups and we must not cross beyond that line or else, feelings of distrust and hatred would be stirred. In the case of the drawing of profret muhammed, the european deem it as a way to express their thoughts freely but however, they had unknowingly cross that line. they had offended the religion beliefs of the islamic community. Had they been more sensitive towards racial issues deaths and tension wouldnt occur. I do not agree to Singer's view that " freedom of speech includes the freedom to say what everybody else believes to be false, and even what many people find offensive". No one will like it when their sacred beliefs in gods and religion are being condemned. We as a mature lot mus know how to respect that.

In conclusion, i agree that freedom of speech mus be allow in this modern society so as to progress as a whole but however, we also have to limit ourself and to always think before what we say.