Now in Sweden.
Sweden is on fire after a right-wing extremist from Denmark announced his arrival in neighboring Sweden, to burn the Koran. I am neither a Muslim nor a Jew, not even an active Christian. But I have a Christian upbringing in a home where the Ten Commandments were central, both within the four walls of the house and in the running of the family business with all the employees.
Democracy and freedom of speech.
In Scandinavia, as in the United States, freedom of expression is central. We are allowed to criticize each other publicly for views and attitudes we do not agree with or do not like. The debate can often be quite heated in the media for that reason. Nevertheless, this is part of our democracy, intended to show that the country tolerates diversity in terms of political views, cultural background, religion, attitudes, and way of life.
Burning the Koran is not freedom of speech!
BURNING SACRED SCRIPTURES IS NOT FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION! On the contrary. It is gross violation, blasphemy, and disrespect, whether it concerns the QUR’AN, the BIBLE, the TORAH or the DIGHANIKAYA dialogues of Theravada Buddhism.
A literary, ethical and moral world heritage.
We must remember that these written works, which in their content originated from the various prophets’ speeches, actions, and lives, belong to us all.
They are our common literary heritage, just like the Pyramids of Egypt, the Parthenon Temple on the Acropolis, Angkor Vat, Taj Mahal or the Great Wall of China are our architectural heritage. Whether we agree or disagree with parts of the content of these works, it is morally reprehensible to make a book bonfire out of them. It’s as pointless as trying to set fire to Angkor Wat or the Taj Mahal because we do not like the way they are built.
Freedom of speech.
On the other hand, I want to fight for a state governed by the rule of law where it is allowed to criticize objectively, extracts from these texts, based on one’s own values.
This is how I perceive that freedom of expression can be used constructively. Not as a torch, but as a discussion and eventually also dialogue. Perhaps even helping us to reflect on aspects of our own outlook on life that oppress, intimidate, or force us into actions and habits that do more harm than good. Unconscious habits that promotes hatred more than understanding, rejection more than recognition and love.
