In an era of heightened social awareness and digital interconnectedness, the dynamics of free speech and its impact on various identity groups—defined by race, gender, religion, and sexual orientation, among other characteristics—have become crucial. The workshop addresses this contemporary issue, offering insights into how free speech can both challenge and support diverse identities and how these identities, in turn, influence the discourse on free speech.

The interplay between hate speech, political correctness, and cancel culture is a multifaceted and contentious issue in contemporary society.

Hate speech, fundamentally, involves communication that disparages a person or a group based on their social or demographic characteristics. This can include speech that incites violence, discrimination, or hostility towards individuals based on race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, among other identities. The impact of hate speech is profound, contributing to societal divisions, reinforcing stereotypes, and often resulting in psychological harm to the targeted groups. It challenges the boundaries of free expression, raising questions about where to draw the line between permissible speech and that which causes real-world harm.

Political correctness (PC) emerged as a response to mitigate the harms of hate speech. It advocates for language and practices that aim to avoid offence, particularly concerning historically marginalized or disadvantaged groups. While proponents of PC argue that it promotes inclusivity, respect, and social harmony, critics claim it can lead to over-censorship and suppression of free speech. This dichotomy presents a balancing act between fostering a respectful discourse and maintaining the fundamental right to free expression.

Cancel culture, a relatively recent phenomenon involves publicly calling out individuals or entities for perceived offensive behaviour or speech, often leading to widespread criticism or boycotts. While it can be seen as a form of social accountability, empowering people to challenge harmful narratives and behaviours, it also has its pitfalls. Critics argue that cancel culture can lead to unjust mob justice, where individuals are condemned without a fair assessment or a chance to respond, potentially leading to disproportionate consequences.

The interplay of these three elements reflects the complexities of managing speech in a diverse society. It underscores the ongoing debate about protecting freedom of expression while ensuring that this freedom does not perpetuate, harm or marginalize vulnerable groups. The challenge lies in finding a middle ground that respects both individual rights and communal responsibilities.

Call for papers

This workshop is open to those scholars interested in free speech and identities from different perspectives. Please write an email to oscar.perez@uc3m.es with a title and an abstract (300-400 words) of your paper, your affiliation and a short bio by 1 March 2023.

We expect to publish all presented papers in a collective book for a prominent editorial, such as Routledge, or the special issue of a well-indexed Journal.

You can have updated information on this workshop by clicking:

http://webphilosophia.com/blog/workshopfree-speech-and-identities-ivr-world-congress-seoul-korea-7-2-july-2023/