I agree with everything you say except the hate speech being legislated against (as it lacks definition).
We all know what is hate speech
But that's exactly the kind of common sense statement the left can -and do- use against free speech..if there is legislationthat can be brough to bear.
Therefor it's better not legislated against...(as opposed to inciting violence).
Could I be taken to court for someone else overhearing me say to my mate :
"hey! gay nigger boy!( he's mixed race, but doesn't mind! very gay though!)
He calls me 'snowflake white boy' all the time..
Do I hate him because of my expression?
No, he's one of my closest mates...
Neither of us will curb the way we talk to each other, from fear of offending anyone..
That isn't hate speech, but could be twisted by a manipulator will nefarious objectives...
Offense in speech, is a dish best served ignored, not punishable by authority..
Yah I hear yah.. I'm talking about hate speech exclusively inciting violence. "Burn them all" etc.. kill them throw them in ovens etc..
If you friend lets you talk to him like that.. fine - LOL if someone over hears and is "offended", well too bad.
But on the flip side, if you are cat-calling or doing it in the context outside of "friendship" well that's easy to define.
Oh I could tell you a few stories on that score... lol