To the Editor:
Focusing on the distinction between free speech laws in the United States and other countries misses the big picture ("Outside U.S., Hate Speech Can Be Costly," June 12). Any article on hate speech laws that does not address the electronically interconnected nature of today's world is ultimately incomplete.
The Internet has provided a vast, dangerous vehicle for the spread of hate across national boundaries, frustrating many attempts at legal restrictions. Purveyors of anti-Semitism and Holocaust denial, of racism and xenophobia, and of countless others forms of hate, no matter where they are based, have been able to spew their hate. If they cannot find a Canadian, British, French, or a German host for their web site, they can readily find one in the United States.
The spread of hate around the globe via the Internet poses a challenge to governments, technology experts, internet companies, educators, parents, and consumers. Since it cannot be legislated out of existence, new strategies need to be developed to inoculate as many people as possible against its noxious effects.
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