Misuse of Freedom and Its Social Consequences

By Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi, New Age Islam 14 October 2025 Abstract: Freedom of expression is an important human right, but it must be used with care and respect. When people misuse it to insult religions, beliefs, or communities, it causes hatred, division, and social harm. True freedom means sharing ideas responsibly without hurting others. In many parts of the world, people use free speech unfairly against Islam or other faiths, which damages peace. Even within religious circles, freedom is sometimes wrongly restricted. Islam teaches balance — to speak truth kindly or stay silent. Therefore, freedom of speech should create understanding, not conflict. When practiced wisely, it brings respect, knowledge, and harmony in society. Main Points: 1. Freedom of expression always requires respect, balance, and responsibility. 2. Misuse causes hatred, division, and weakens social harmony everywhere. 3. True freedom never allows insult to any faith. 4. Islam supports honest speech within moral and respectful limits. 5. Responsible freedom builds peace, unity, and global understanding. ----- It is an undeniable fact that freedom of expression is one of the most important and fundamental issues of the modern age. Generally, societies today suffer from extremes in this matter — either too much restriction or too much liberty. We often see and hear examples of both. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the right meaning of the freedom of expression and to use it in a balanced and responsible way. According to Article 19 of the United Nations Charter, the freedom of expression is defined as follows: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers.” Now, the question arises — why is this right misused so often in our societies? Those who misuse it know very well that the freedom of expression has certain limits, conditions, and responsibilities. Therefore, no one — regardless of their religion, community, or belief — should cross these boundaries while expressing their views. Misuse of Freedom in Society In fact, there are several prevailing attitudes regarding freedom of expression in society. One group considers itself highly “liberal” or even “anti-religious.” Such people openly criticise religions, beliefs, and philosophies in a negative way — and then justify it by claiming it is their right to free expression. But this is a complete misunderstanding. Freedom of expression does not mean that anyone has the right to insult another person’s faith or sacred beliefs. Religion and belief are extremely sensitive matters. Even if someone disagrees with another’s faith or doctrine, they must still avoid making offensive or disrespectful remarks. Sadly, there are those who use “freedom of expression” as a weapon of hostility against religions — especially against Islam. Double Standards and Bias We have seen numerous incidents in the Western world where this right has been grossly misused. One must question why the very institutions that created these laws do not act firmly against those who, under the name of freedom of speech, create unrest, hatred, and chaos in society. There is a long list of people who have spoken insultingly about Islamic beliefs and holy personalities. Undoubtedly, such behaviour is deeply regrettable. It almost seems as if the misuse of freedom of expression against Muslims is part of a well-planned conspiracy. This hypocrisy also raises questions about the honesty and sincerity of those organisations that claim to stand for human rights and social harmony. Even in our own country, India, there have been several instances where the sacred personalities and beliefs of Muslims have been disrespected in the name of free speech. What is even more painful is that these acts were done openly, not secretly. India has always been known as a land of many religions and beliefs, where people respect not only their own faith but also the faiths of others. This mutual respect has been part of our shared national culture. Therefore, using freedom of speech to insult any particular religion or its revered figures is completely inappropriate for a country like India. Every religion, whether we follow it or not, deserves respect. Social Consequences It should be remembered that harassing or insulting any community in the name of free speech always produces negative results in society. Religious hostility or overzealous preaching should never lead us to cross the limits of decency and begin insulting others’ beliefs. Whoever does so is not only an enemy of that community but also dishonest to their own religion. Misunderstanding Freedom within Religious Circles Unfortunately, the positive concept of free expression has also been distorted within our own religious circles. In many religious institutions and spiritual centres, even asking a valid question is treated as a sin. Whatever a religious leader says is considered absolute truth, and expressing any different view is seen as disrespect. But Islam has never taught such rigidity. In fact, this restrictive attitude within religious institutions is unhealthy for any progressive society. If a respected scholar or saint makes a statement, the followers in that circle often consider it offensive to question or discuss it further. This attitude harms both religion and knowledge. The Qur’an repeatedly encourages people to think, reflect, and use their intellect. Nowhere in Islamic history do we find a command to accept things blindly without thought. The life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provides numerous examples of open discussion and reasoning. For example, the well-known incident involving Hazrat Buraidah (may Allah be pleased with him) and many others shows that expressing one’s opinion is not forbidden — as long as it is done respectfully and without hurting anyone. A Balanced Approach Whether one belongs to a liberal group, an anti-religious circle, or a conservative religious community — everyone must ensure that the right to free expression is never misused. The rules and limits of this right must always be respected. Balance, moderation, and fairness should be our guiding principles. If freedom of expression is practised in this balanced manner, it will surely produce positive effects in intellectual, social, and political circles. The Need for Equality in Rights The biggest problem today is that people interpret “freedom of speech” according to their own convenience and interests. This selective approach has led to many conflicts. If we truly want peace, harmony, and unity in society, then we must understand that the same freedom we claim for ourselves must also be granted to others. Mutual respect — even in disagreement — is a key value for maintaining social unity and national as well as global stability. When freedom of expression is used correctly and responsibly, false notions and prejudices will fade away. In a pluralistic society, this balanced understanding will promote respect among religions and create a healthy intellectual environment for dialogue, research, and growth. Therefore, it is essential that all negative, biased, or extremist interpretations of freedom of expression be collectively discouraged. Conclusion Freedom of expression is one of the most important human rights. It allows people to share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas freely, helping to create awareness, knowledge, and understanding in society. However, when this freedom is misused, it can cause serious harm to individuals and communities. In today’s world, many people use the right to free speech as an excuse to insult others, spread hate, or disrespect religions and beliefs. One of the worst forms of misuse is speaking irresponsibly about religion or faith. When people cross moral and social boundaries in expressing their opinions, they damage peace and mutual respect. Across the world, disrespect towards holy figures and religious values is often defended as “freedom of speech,” which only spreads division, hatred, and conflict among different communities. Freedom of speech should promote dialogue, awareness, and understanding—not insult or hostility. When it goes beyond limits, society faces moral decline and chaos. On social media, for example, people often spread lies, mock others, and post hateful content, which weakens social unity. Islam recognises the right to express opinions but within the limits of truth, justice, and kindness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that one should speak good or remain silent. Misusing freedom of speech leads to distrust, division, and violence. True peace and harmony can only be achieved when this right is used with responsibility, respect, and balance. ----- Dr. Zafar Darik Qasmi is an author and a New Age Islam Regular Columnist. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/misuse-freedom-social-consequences/d/137240 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism