Living in a democratic country comes with the privilege of
freedom, a right that every individual should be proud to possess. In many
constitutions, the freedom of the individual is guaranteed, and the term
"freedom" encompasses three different aspects: freedom of speech, freedom of
assembly, and freedom of the person.
Freedom of speech is crucial to a democratic society, as every individual should
be allowed to express their opinions publicly. While England does not have a
specific right to freedom of speech in its constitution, laws are in place to
prevent defamation through libel or slander. Genuine criticism made in good
faith is acceptable, but publishing blasphemous or obscene material is against
the law. The press has the same freedom as individuals to publish what they
like, provided that it is not libelous. However, if a newspaper does libel
someone, a full apology should be made at the earliest opportunity.
Freedom of assembly allows individuals to meet together and express their views
publicly. However, for public safety reasons, meetings should be subject to some
official control, and the police have the power to break up a meeting that is
likely to cause a breach of the peace or is engaging in illegal activities. The
same rules apply to processions, which can be broken up if they obstruct the
highway. Authorities can also lay down a route for a procession to avoid
troublesome or congested areas.
Freedom of the person is the last important aspect of freedom. While every
person is liable to be arrested for their criminal acts, the Habeas Corpus
Procedure provides important safeguards to ensure a speedy trial or release if
the charge is wrong. The prisoner or their friend can demand a writ from a
judge, which is then served upon the gaoler who has to show good cause why the
particular person has been arrested. If they cannot do this, the prisoner must
be released. Even if the arrest is proved to be correct, the Habeas Corpus writ
ensures a speedy trial and the right to bail.
In conclusion, while the government should not curtail the individual's freedom
too strictly, individuals should not abuse their freedom either. The French
Revolution of 1789 is a cautionary tale of a government applying the law too
strictly and unfairly against the lower classes, leading to rebellion and social
disorder. While freedom is important, it must be limited to conform to the
well-being of other members of the same society. Freedom without some form of
control is of no value at all. |