Rethinking Freedom of Expression in Light of the Emerging Sacredness of Social, Cultural, and Political Values

Abstract

Religion has always been considered to be sacred, perhaps the most sacred of all, and maybe the only sacred occurrence that exists among other ‘well-respected phenomena’ in many societies. In recent times, "the religion" has experienced a decline in influence, and its sacredness is not as pronounced as it once was, particularly in Western countries. Though, the phenomenon of religion is getting weaker with the passage of time, it does not mean that the element ‘sacred’ is also getting weaker. Every society has its own values which are sacred for that particular society. The notion of blasphemy is linked to the sacred, and since religion was once the utmost sacred entity, it was closely tied to religious beliefs. After the emergence of the nation-state in the 20th century, different political ideologies and cultural aspects of life became more influential and somehow were considered sacred. Thus, the idea of blasphemy cannot only be associated with religion, especially when new phenomena have replaced religion as the most sacred subject in society. The right of freedom of expression is closely associated with the act of blasphemy. This right is not absolute in nature. There are certain limits and boundaries which vary from society to society and should be kept in mind while exercising this right.  The right of freedom of expression is meant to have a positive impact rather than ridiculing the established sacred.