Humanist group holds Shrewsbury meeting
Shropshire Humanist Group will be learning about blasphemy and the freedom of expression when they meet next month.
Professor Paul Sturges OBE, emeritus professor of library studies at Loughborough University will be talking on the topic when the group meeting on June 15 at 7.30pm in University Centre Shrewsbury, Guildhall, Frankwell Quay, Shrewsbury.
Professor Sturges’ talk will range over the history of the offence of blasphemy in relation to freedom of expression, with examples from some different parts of the world. The examples of blasphemy will include some that would seriously offend religious believers. There will also be accounts of hangings, lashings and horrible murders by people enraged by blasphemy.
He will contrast blasphemy laws and their consequences, with laws and international statements on freedom of expression. In the process he will attempt to draw useful distinctions between critical comment, satire, offensive speech and publication, and incitement to hatred, whilst stressing the value of good manners and consideration for others.
