The relationship between free speech and public deliberation is deeply affected by new and converging dynamics, both in analog and digital forms of communication. This project explores the digital transformation of the meaning and relevance of free speech in contemporary society. It includes theoretical reflections, empirical studies and normative considerations conducted by researchers, students and lecturers from social sciences, media and legal studies.
In theoretical terms, we aim at discussing free speech and argumentative negotiation in the processes of digital social heating (or cooling): we ask for a space of rational exchange during waves of public heating, we dwell into the changing relationship between „prosumer“-driven social media platforms, institutionalized media outlets (meso and macro communication) and also focus on the relevance of time in public discourse. Empirically, we examine various events and areas of society in order to better understand the crucial role of free speech, which has been and still is both a contested and a necessary prerequisite for democratic society.
