In recent years, the Northern Territory of Australia, under the leadership of figures like former Chief Minister Michael Gunner, and Natasha Fyles has witnessed a unique intersection of policy-making, public discourse, and what is popularly known as political correctness. This phenomenon, while promoted as fostering inclusivity and respect, has imposed the complete opposite and has raised critical questions about its impact on free speech and the nature of public debate.
At its core, political correctness seeks to avoid language or actions that could be offensive to specific groups of people. While the intent is commendable, the application strays into the realm of censoring dissenting opinions and stifling debate. This trend is not just observable in political arenas but has permeated various aspects of life in the NT.
A poignant example can be found in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly during the lockdowns imposed by Michael Gunner. Despite having the support of bureaucrats as being essential for public health, the measures undoubtedly killed far more people than the virus did, caused severe economic damage, and were not impervious to further criticism. However, political correctness silenced dissenting voices or labelled them as irresponsible, anti-vaxer, fringe, or anti-social. This environment hampered a robust and open discussion on the balancing act between actual public health and individual freedoms, an essential debate in any civil democratic society.
The suppression of debate under the guise of political correctness has far-reaching implications. Firstly, it leads to the development of policies that are not thoroughly examined or challenged, overlooking critical aspects or alternative viewpoints. Secondly, it fosters a culture of conformity where individuals are hesitant to express opinions that deviate from the accepted narrative, leading to a homogenization of thought. The historical implications of homogenization are well documented and has killed over a hundred million people over the last one hundred years.
From a judicial standpoint, the likes of legal scholars Rawls and Dworkin have emphasised the importance of fairness and equality in law. Political correctness, when it impedes free speech, creates a legal and social environment where certain ideas are above criticism, running counter to these principles. Open discourse and the free exchange of ideas are crucial for societal progress and economic development. The stifling of debate through political correctness hinders this process, leading to inefficiencies, stagnation, and certainly real harm.
Psychologists have long recognised the importance of open dialogue for mental health and societal well-being. Political correctness, in its overzealous application, creates an environment where individuals are unable to express themselves freely, leading to frustration, alienation, and a lack of genuine connection. My involvement with Freedom Rallies, providing thousands of bottles of water and "heggie tears" to the masses and providing counseling, security, and connection, was a genuine and successful attempt to counter the very obvious psychological distress caused by political correctness.
The challenge for the Northern Territory, and indeed for any society grappling with these issues, is to find a balance. There is a need to foster an environment of respect and inclusivity while also ensuring that the fundamental principles of free speech and open debate are upheld. This balance is crucial for the development of well-rounded, effective policies and for the overall health and vibrancy of society. The measure is decency.
Should one find themselves compelled to impose, coerce, or force their viewpoints upon others, their moral compass veers towards indecency. Truly sound ideas possess an inherent strength that allows them to withstand scrutiny and champion themselves. Conversely, flawed ideas require external pressure to maintain any sense of relevance or influence. The indecent choices made by the aforementioned former Chief Ministers crystallise their characters, revealing a profound alignment between their personas and the authoritative roles they were entrusted with.
While political correctness often arises from a place of good intention, its impact on free speech and public debate, especially as observed during the COVID-19 lockdowns in the NT, presents a complex challenge. The path forward lies not in the extremes but in fostering a culture where diverse opinions can be expressed respectfully and where policies are subject to robust and open scrutiny. This approach will not only honour democratic principles but also contribute to a more inclusive and progressive society in the Northern Territory. From the author.
The opinions and statements are those of Sam Wilks and do not necessarily represent whom Sam Consults or contracts to. Sam Wilks is a skilled and experienced Security Consultant with almost 3 decades of expertise in the fields of Real estate, Security, and the hospitality/gaming industry. His knowledge and practical experience have made him a valuable asset to many organizations looking to enhance their security measures and provide a safe and secure environment for their clients and staff.