Sir, - In my recent pamphlet I argued for complete freedom of expression, providing a place and context for difficult areas. I advocated that ideas should be totally free, because essentially what the human mind produces comes from somewhere inside the psyche, and therefore can be integrated into a historical or philosophical context.
However, when ideas become politicised, they may provide the ground for abuse of freedom of expression, which was the case with Nazi Germany, who actively sought not only denial of freedom of expression to a people who were outstanding philosophers, thinkers, musicians and artists but sought also the complete extermination of this gifted race. Kevin Myers has rightly pointed out the means the Nazis sought to do so, and how we never should forget.
To deny Francis Stuart freedom of expression would be wrong, since two wrongs do not make a right, but to honour him is an entirely different matter. How could we give an honoured position to someone whose work was directed in supressing the freedom of expression of others and denying them the basic right to live? For honour belongs to the person, not the work.
No doubt Francis Stuart has thought and said many things which are illuminating, save the reciprocal respect for human rights. I have yet to understand his motivation. Today (November 5th) I was enlightened by what Fintan O'Toole had to say. There is no question that Francis Stuart should be forgiven - but forgotten, no. His own testimony for which we are grateful - will always be with us. - Yours, etc.
M.A., M.Litt. Dip. Psych., Booterstown,
Blackrock, Co Dublin.