The definition of free speech is as Lucia Yeh ("Annette Lu provokes very strong reactions,"Nov. 9, page 8) defines it. It provides us with the right to speak as we feel necessary. It allows us to voice our opinions and beliefs without fear of persecution. Unfortunately, what Yeh does not realize is that political figures, particularly those in positions as senior as Vice-President Annette Lu's (呂秀蓮), require a sense of responsibility.
What this means is that in a democracy, while we are given the right to speak as we choose, this does not include the right to slander people and accuse individuals of corruption and misdeeds (particularly when the accusations are not supported by evidence). Lu, as one of this nation's leaders, should embody the level of decorum, responsibility and respect that we would be proud to see in our leaders.
The response of the high school students and their parents, is a reasonable one. In other major democratic states, parents are given a say in who and what is taught to their children. They should have been involved in the decision to have Lu speak at the school.
Free speech, when taken too literally leads to chaos. When this power is held in the hands of someone as powerful and influential as Lu (who we have to admit has sometimes been a little too outspoken for her own good), this is even more dangerous. Free speech is not just a right, it is a responsibility that we must all uphold, or risk devaluing it.
Winnie King
Taipei
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