Freedom of Speech

Journalists pride themselves on being the speaker of truth to the powerful. For generations now western journalists have been able to talk the talk without having to walk the walk. Now the power that they must confront is of a different sort and journalism is returning to its roots: speak the truth and risk your life.
The deep convictions of the major (read that liberal) newspapers seem to have suddenly undergone a change in the past week. Muslim extremists take to the streets threatening terrorist attacks, burning flags, and calling for the beheading of cartoonists, and press solidarity evaporates. Instead, the champions of free speech advise us: "Yes yes, free speech is all very well but you must of course practice it responsibly."! I wouldn't look for much bravery from the press in its support for free speech. The only time freedom of speech is relevant is when the speech is offensive to someone. Who needs freedom to speak on non-controversial topics?