""So long as we do not harm others we should be free to think, speak, act, and live as we see fit, without molestation from individuals, law, or government...The only freedom which deserves the name, is that of pursuing our own good in our own way, so long as we do not attempt to deprive others of theirs, or impede their efforts to obtain it." - John Stuart Mill; On Liberty"
Here the operative words are harm, deprive, and impede.
Hence libel and slander laws.
Court decisions which allow a wider range of detrimental remarks when they are directed at public figures are also common. But derogatory remarks or sermons about whole groups of people are not protected.
"Article 19 General comment on its implementation
1. Everyone shall have the right to hold opinions without interference.
2. Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.
3. The exercise of the rights provided for in paragraph 2 of this article carries with it special duties and responsibilities. It may therefore be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall only be such as are provided by law and are necessary:
(a) For respect of the rights or reputations of others;
(b) For the protection of national security or of public order (ordre public), or of public health or morals.
Article 20 General comment on its implementation
1. Any propaganda for war shall be prohibited by law.
2. Any advocacy of national, racial or religious hatred that constitutes incitement to discrimination, hostility or violence shall be prohibited by law."
unhchr.ch
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