[Throwway32]

Far more dangerous than the idea it’s trying to silence.

I don't know about that. In the real world, there are homicidal maniacs, deranged ideologues trying to incite violence, paid propaganda outfits, state actors who masquerade as legitimate voices. If allowing them free rein is the price for "freedom", I'd rather have a little less freedom, because that sort of freedom is unsustainable and will, inevitably, destroy itself.

[giardini]

Throwway32>"...there are homicidal maniacs, deranged ideologues trying to incite violence, paid propaganda outfits, state actors who masquerade as legitimate voices..."

Of course that is correct. Regarding the first two categories (maniacs and ideologues):

but not letting them post doesn't make them go away - they are still there waiting, possibly with axes, behind the next tree!8-))

Firstly, let them post so you are reminded that they are there and what they say. Secondly, let them post so they can _speak_ and be heard - something every human seeks. The Internet allows shut-ins, invalids, some prisoners and possibly even mad men a voice. Thirdly, let them speak so they can be recorded. Then afterward we have a trail we can follow. Maybe someday we can use that information to detect serious problems before they cause societal damage.

Regarding the last two categories (paid propaganda and state actors): you will not be able to block them b/c they are part of the system and they manipulate the system. You and others will simply have to detect them.