Freedom of speech is under increasing attack from various quarters, including, shockingly, much of the media. The consequences of nonconformity are ugly, such as potential loss of ones job and public shaming.

This is poison for democracy.

Moreover, what isnt so well appreciated is that freedom of expression goes hand-in-hand with economic progress, as this episode of Whats Ahead makes clear.

Free speech is essential to our well-being and for a more prosperous future.

Steve Forbes is Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media.Steves newest project is the podcast Whats Ahead, where he engages the worlds top newsmakers,

Steve Forbes is Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media.Steves newest project is the podcast Whats Ahead, where he engages the worlds top newsmakers, politicians and pioneers in business and economics in honest conversations meant to challenge traditional conventions as well as featuring Steves signature views on the intersection of society, economic and policy. Steve helped create the recently released and highly acclaimed public television documentary, In Money We Trust?, which was produced under the auspices of Maryland Public television. The film was inspired by the book he co-authored, Money: How the Destruction of the Dollar Threatens the Global Economy and What We Can Do About It. Steves latest book is Reviving America: How Repealing Obamacare, Replacing the Tax Code and Reforming The Fed will Restore Hope and Prosperity co-authored by Elizabeth Ames (McGraw-Hill Professional).Steve writes editorials for each issue of Forbes under the heading of Fact and Comment. A widely respected economic prognosticator, he is the only writer to have won the highly prestigious Crystal Owl Award four times. The prize was formerly given by U.S. Steel Corporation to the financial journalist whose economic forecasts for the coming year proved most accurate.In both 1996 and 2000, Steve campaigned vigorously for the Republican nomination for the Presidency. Key to his platform were a flat tax, medical savings accounts, a new Social Security system for working Americans, parental choice of schools for their children, term limits and a strong national defense. Steve continues to energetically promote this agenda.

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Why Suppressing Free Speech Will Hurt The Economy - Forbes