In the wake of Cablegate, the massive release of sensitive documents released online by WikiLeaks and the subsequent DDoS attacks by pro- and anti-WikiLeaks factions on each others’ websites, a fact long-known to only a few cognoscenti became public — free speech online is very much endangered. Both sides claimed they were following a higher calling. The pro-WikiLeaks hackers stated they were supporting free speech, and their opponents painted themselves as patriots. That concept of patriotism apparently struck a chord in the ears of some U.S. leaders.
I don't believe that the First Amendment gives us the right to read information that was obtained illegally. As far as I am concerned, if the information is deemed as classified to our government, then our access to it should be blocked.
Well like those put into gaol for crimes of deceit, theft and violence. OUR governments should be held accountable also....so any rights are voided as a result of the governments criminal behaviors. And we the people must be informed! Please don't insult the intelligence of the people by throwing around the first amendment...which applies to law abiding citizens, including those of government of all nations.
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Freedom of Online Speech in a Post-Wikileaks World
Posted by: Richard Adhikari January 13, 2011 05:00 AMIn the wake of Cablegate, the massive release of sensitive documents released online by WikiLeaks and the subsequent DDoS attacks by pro- and anti-WikiLeaks factions on each others’ websites, a fact long-known to only a few cognoscenti became public — free speech online is very much endangered. Both sides claimed they were following a higher calling. The pro-WikiLeaks hackers stated they were supporting free speech, and their opponents painted themselves as patriots. That concept of patriotism apparently struck a chord in the ears of some U.S. leaders.