Speak Out: Free Speech Online
If a disgruntled employee uses the Net to take an employer to task, can the company have the worker's Web site shut? This issue is in the courts in Massachusetts.
A former Mattel, Inc. employee who claims he was fired illegally now claims the company is attempting to stifle his free speech by attempting to shut down his Web site, Sorehands.com. Mattel is suing the employee for libel and demanding his Web site -- which details the anti-discrimination charges he filed with the state -- be pulled from the Net.
Free speech proponents claim such lawsuits are scare tactics and threaten free speech. They say the Web is a way for those without a political voice to be heard -- and there must not be government intrusion.
But those supporting the employer say companies have a right to protect themselves against postings that could take away their competitive advantage -- and now is the time to set up laws to make sure company reputations are protected.
What's your opinion? Do we need controls on what commentary is allowed on the Web? Or is the Internet a place for uncensored free speech?
Speak Out and voice your opinion in the box below.
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