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Free press is not absolute. In this country, we say…

“Free press is not absolute. In this country, we say clearly if you start stirring up racial hatred, then we will put a stop to it. We might even close down your paper, because these things can only lead to a lot of riots and bloodshed.” quote by Mahathir Mohamad
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“Free press is not absolute. In this country, we say clearly if you start stirring up racial hatred, then we will put a stop to it. We might even close down your paper, because these things can only lead to a lot of riots and bloodshed.”

Mahathir Mohamad

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Freedom of the press is limited when it incites hatred that could cause violence.

In simple terms: Press can be restricted to prevent hate and unrest.

Key Takeaway

Limit speech that threatens public safety.

Themes

free speech public safety media ethics

Mood

cautious serious

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • government policy

Key Concepts

hate speech regulation press freedom civil unrest

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria should define dangerous speech?
  • Who decides when to shut down a paper?
A Different Perspective

Balancing liberty with security is complex.

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