Karanasiou, Argyro ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3268-4019 (2013) On balancing free speech in a digital context. Masaryk University Journal of Law and Technology, 6 (2). pp. 247-266. ISSN 1802-5943 (Print), 1802-5951 (Online)

PDF (Published version) 24221 KARANASIOU_Free_Speech_Digital_Context_(Pub)_2013.pdf - Published Version Restricted to Repository staff only Download (187kB) | Request a copy

Abstract

The paper argues that our conventional approaches regarding the right to free speech seem outdated when applied online. To draw this conclusion, the free speech architecture of two jurisdictions is closely examined: Despite their ostensible differences, the First Amendment and the article 10 ECHR seem to have developed a common legal mechanism regarding the protective scope of the right to free speech. In particular, they both define the right’s contours by adjusting its permissible limits within a given context. Ultimately, the two jurisdictions perform a balancing act in order to outline the level of protection reserved for this right. The paper traces and analyzes three of the most frequently evoked balancing parameters: space, property and state coercion. Eventually, it is demonstrated that all these three parameters are challenged in cyberspace; as a result they seem to be of little help for balancing online speech. The paper therefore suggests adopting a new approach; digitizing our conventional human rights as the proper way of striking a fair balance for online free speech.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Techno-law, digital media, free speech, cyberspace, Balancing Act, spatiality, property, digitization of human rights
Subjects:	K Law > K Law (General)
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Liberal Arts & Sciences Faculty of Liberal Arts & Sciences > School of Law & Criminology (LAC)
Last Modified:	15 Jul 2019 09:46
URI:	http://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/24221

Actions (login required)

View Item

Downloads