There have been many instances lately where comedians have found themselves into controversy because of their vulgar, personal, and sarcastic comments on politicians, media, organisations, and other celebrities. When questioned, they justify their remarks by calling it freedom of speech.
But are vulgar comments or personal attacks on someone really comedy and freedom of speech?
We need to first understand what comedy and freedom of speech are before we jump to a conclusion.
What is comedy?
It is a play or drama that involves amusing or fictional characters intended to make people laugh. It involves drama around life issues, social issues, and life events. For example, A comedy about parenthood, A comedy about the political situation in the country, A comedy about school/college lives.
What is freedom of speech?
It is the right to express ideas and opinions about a subject without fear of government, other authorities, or anyone. But at the same time, it doesn’t give you the right to defame anyone, be abusive towards someone, for personal attacks, use provocative language/incite violence, or use vulgar/obscene language or expressions.
So, if you understand what comedy and freedom of speech really are, you will understand that today’s comedy is not always in good taste. Comedians often use vulgar/abusive words, obscene language/expressions, fulfilling their personal or political agenda, which are neither comedy nor freedom of speech. They are misusing the platforms for their personal gain only, not thinking about how it may impact society.
The sad part is their followers blindly try to justify and normalise such things just because they love them. We need to raise our voices against such comedy or media content instead of supporting them.
