When I was younger and dumber than I am now, I was a Republican. I supported Bush. I really generally towed the line.
My first and only year at Montana State before I transferred, I attended one meeting of the college Republicans.
The reason why I never attended a second meeting was because they decided to push an initiative to prevent professors from voicing political opinions during class.
I had no real education on free speech at the time. I didn't even really know that libertarian philosophy was a thing. I certainly didn't understand the nuances regarding First Amendment protections and limitations, the moral principles as opposed to the legal issues, so-on. I just immediately felt that what they were trying to propose was wrong.
Maybe it was because my favourite professor was left of left. Maybe it's because my instincts just pushed my thinking (which is incredibly plausible). But, I really think that, even at that young age and despite how ignorant I was, I just didn't see an issue with anybody saying anything. I was more easily offended at that age; but, even at that age, I regarded my taking offense as being something that was on me to stomach rather than being a burden on others to watch what they say.
Of course, I always could be wrong. But, if there's a reason why I'm so sure about my absolutist view on free speech, it's that I know that to change my mind, I need to allow you to speak. I can't shout over you. I can't intimidate you. I need to keep just beating you philosophically every step of the way and welcome the competition.
It all started that day in Montana.
