I really like and respect Carmack but Sam is completely correct here and Carmack has been insulated from the real world now likely about as long as I've been alive.
Free speech was never meant to cover lies. The founding fathers believed strongly in libel and slander laws (which were seen as more civilized to public dueling, the previous way you punished someone for lying about you.) Since libel and slander have become effectively legal, cancel culture is the only thing left.
If we restore free speech to the pre-Sullivan standard, where truth is always a defense and lies are illegal, I'm fine with Carmack's view.
I really like and respect Carmack but Sam is completely correct here and Carmack has been insulated from the real world now likely about as long as I've been alive.
Free speech was never meant to cover lies. The founding fathers believed strongly in libel and slander laws (which were seen as more civilized to public dueling, the previous way you punished someone for lying about you.) Since libel and slander have become effectively legal, cancel culture is the only thing left.
If we restore free speech to the pre-Sullivan standard, where truth is always a defense and lies are illegal, I'm fine with Carmack's view.
Don't forget the modern option to shop for Judges of your personal persuasion.