OpenGrounds hosted its first open table discussion of the semester led by Politics and Public Policy Prof. James Savage Thursday. Titled “Art as Political Commentary” the discussion examined the Jan. 7 terrorist attacks on the Paris offices of satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo. The event raised questions regarding free speech and civic responsibility.
Savage began the discussion with a brief outline of attacks on Charlie Hebdo throughout its history as a controversial publication. The magazine is part of a larger French tradition of cartoonists challenging the status quo with their work, acting as provocateurs. Attendees discussed Charlie Hebdo’s particular brand of provocation, including whether it facilitates dialogue by breaking down cultural barriers or whether it is incendiary for the sake of being incendiary.
Savage broadened the scope of conversation by asking about the nature of free speech. Even if deemed irresponsible, obscene or racist, should it be limited? If there are limits, is it still free?
Aside from asking these questions and showing examples of Charlie Hebdo cartoons to attendees, Savage allowed conversation to take a natural course and encouraged participation from everyone at the discussion. Having never attended one of these events before, I had anticipated a lecture with the opportunity for questions afterwards. Although that structure has its merits, an informal dialogue left room to articulate opinions which might not have been expressed had the lauded professor first presented an argument to the audience.
The fewer than ten people at the table included international students, graduate students and an assistant professor at the University. Most chose to share their ideas or questions; others chose simply to listen. It was fascinating to watch attendees’ faces as they listened to other viewpoints and had their own views questioned. The relaxed debate was, of course, always civil, maintaining a quality rare among political discourse. Participants genuinely evaluated their viewpoints and walked away with broadened perspective.
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