I used to hold that freedom is absolute. Putting restraint to freedom makes it no longer free.

In the natural state, freedom is absolute, and in such state, man is free to do what he wants, he is free to say what he wants. However, this puts man in a problem. Exercise of freedom in its natural state puts him in conflict with his fellow being. Left uncontrolled, this conflict ultimately leads to violence.

The evolution of the social contract theory led to a society agreeing to be bound to an unwritten agreement to respect each other’s property and rights. This agreement, I believe, to the social contract does not put restraint to freedom. Freedom remains absolute, but man agrees to be responsible for the exercise of such freedom.

We have evolved several means to put the social contract in force. We enact laws to list down our freedoms, guarantees to the exercise of such freedom, our responsibilities when we exercise our freedom, and sanctions when we refuse to bear our responsibilities. We have social norms that govern how we act in a group. We have values that guide our every decision, and these values we usually share with others.

One of the freedoms that we should cherish and exercise with care is the freedom of expression. What does this exercise entails?

1. Libel and slander are in our statute books to hold us responsible for the words we say and write that are either against or might be detrimental to others.

2. Persons affected by what we say should be allowed to respond to or refute our allegations/criticisms/observations.

3. Whatever adverse words we say against others will naturally cause reactions. We should be ready to listen to them, understand them, and answer them.

The response to whatever we say might be illogical, ad hominem, and foul; they are of course free to express what they feel and think.

Where does responsibility comes in? Action brings a reaction. When we exercise our freedom to the detriment of others, we should be responsible enough to face the consequences of our actions. However, responsibility is not limited to what effect our actions might have or cause. Responsibility also calls on us to think first before we act. It is not only prudent but wise not only to avoid trouble but to respect others.

Freedom is absolute, but it comes with responsibility.

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The next logical step in this Malu Fernandez issue: the mainstream media taking note. But will they?

As an adjunct to Nick’s campaign, maybe we should begin informing other news organizations about the irresponsible words that Ms. Fernandez had unleashed upon the word. Otherwise, we will just limit ourselves to the confines of cyberspace. Remember, majority of Filipinos in the country don’t have access to the Web. If a tabloid takes this up, it will probably spell the difference.