On Dissent and Disloyalty

This entry was published at least two years ago (originally posted on September 25, 2005). Since that time the information may have become outdated or my beliefs may have changed (in general, assume a more open and liberal current viewpoint). A fuller disclaimer is available.

True then, and true now:

If we confuse dissent with disloyalty — if we deny the right of the individual to be wrong, unpopular, eccentric or unorthodox — if we deny the essence of ratial equality (sic) then hundreds of millions in Asia and Africa who are shopping about for a new allegiance will conclude that we are concerned to defend a myth and our present privileged status. Every act that denies or limits the freedom of the individual in this country costs us the … confidence of men and women who aspire to that freedom and independence of which we speak and for which our ancestors fought.

— Edward R. Murrow, Ford Fiftieth Anniversary Show, CBS and NBC, June 1953, “Conclusion.”

Found on Wikipedia while looking up information on Edward R. Murrow and Senator Joe McCarthy after watching the trailer for Good Night and Good Luck — which, by the way, looks very interesting.

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