Surveys show that more and more people feel that they can no longer express their opinions freely. That sounds absurd, after all, we do not live in an autocracy where people are stoned to death because of public criticism. Yet ‘the feeling’ – as the saying goes – is not entirely wrong: anyone who openly says what he or she thinks risks a lot.
In our beautiful neighboring country, a recent survey shows that 44 percent of Germans no longer dare to express their opinions freely. This is the worst value in 70 years. But here in Austria the situation doesn’t look much better. 53 percent prefer to keep their opinions hidden and 39 percent are annoyed by ‘political correctness’. This is alarming and strange at the same time.
The Chancellor is stupid
Because there is actually almost nothing here that you are not allowed to say – provided you do not cross any legal boundaries. Unlike many other countries, open criticism of the government, the system or individuals is not a problem here. You do not have to fear a prison sentence or repression, even if you say: “The Chancellor is stupid”. Then why do we sow?
FPÖ voters in particular do not want to express their opinions
According to a market study, it is mainly blue voters who are reluctant to express their opinions, while green or NEOS sympathizers openly express their opinions. This could mean that there is an unspoken code in our society about what you can and cannot say. Apparently right-wing opinions are not welcome here.
Refugees, Corona, gender, climate protection – all landmines!
Anyone who speaks out against an influx of refugees, questions the corona vaccination, finds the gender asterisk strange or is not enthusiastic about climate protection, has a harder time with their opinion in our society than someone who ‘cares’. This is not appropriate and will be punished at worst with exclusion, ridicule and rejection. Frustration causes withdrawal – a huge danger!
Also for tolerance towards FPoilers!
Because that causes part of our society to come to a standstill. You don’t have to be a psychologist to predict that this anger will erupt in the anonymous voting booth. If the other parties want to stop Kickl, it is therefore wiser to allow other opinions instead of demonizing everything blue. The magic word is tolerance. Also towards FPoilers.
Source: Krone
I am George Kunkel, an author working for Today Times Live. I specialize in opinion pieces and cover stories that are both informative and thought-provoking – helping to shape public discourse on key issues. My work is regularly featured across the network’s many platforms, including print media and social media.
