How do we defend and secure free speech in a culture that is increasingly uncivil and disinterested in facts and logic?

This is the topic we take up when self-care guru, corporate trainer, and motivational speaker Breeda Miller joins The Rabbi and the Shrink.

Here are the bullet points:

The elements of free speech: ability, consequences, and responsibility.

Language and thought -- one can corrupt the other

Candor vs courtesy

The ability to disagree without being disagreeable

Is it okay to speak up when you don't understand the culture?

We can't legislate good behavior, but we can legislate responsible behavior.

Curiosity vs. judgmentalism.

Relationships can change hearts and minds.

Tone is integral to communication, and we have to give others the chance to know us.

We have to be willing to question where our beliefs come from.

Travel -- broadening our boundaries -- provides us the opportunity to appreciate different outlooks and perspectives.

Oppressive culture suppresses thought by controlling speech.

How do we engage people who reject facts and logic?

Challenge yourself to articulate opposing points of view.

Good intention, clear thinking, informed action lead to ethical decision making.

Free speech isn't free, freedom is earned, and rights go hand in hand with responsibilities.