Re: Is Microsoft Trampling on First Amendment

[Sujal Shah <sujal@worldnet.att.net>]

On the contrary, Rob, this makes very good sense.  In addition to
restricting the government directly, the First Amendment also restricts
individuals (and companies) from using the government to restrict
someone else's protected speech.

In this case, Microsoft is apparently using broad motions for contempt
in an effort to keep reporters and publications from publishing
disparaging or critical materials by creating fear about being sued. 
Pretty heavy handed, if you ask me.  Additionally, this is protected
speech, in the case of Wendy's books/articles, and the C/Net guy.

Sujal

Rob Marqusee wrote:
> 
> I do not understand Wendy's article.
> 
> MS cannot trample anyone's First Amendment Rights -  it is a corporation,
> and the Constitution does not apply to restrain the actions of a
> corporation or any citizen (i.e., it is only meant to restrain Govt
> actions).
> 
> I think that Wendy is talking about 'privacy', trade secrets, etc.
> 
> Rob
> 
> > Wendy has kindly consented to allow me to publish her article "Is
> > Microsoft Trampling on First Amendment Rights?" simultaneously with the
> > San Jose Merc.
> >
> > http://www.vcnet.com/bms/features/rohm.shtml
> >
> >    Mitch Stone
> >    Editor, Boycott Microsoft
> >    http://www.vcnet.com/bms
> >  +---
> >    An ounce of hypocrisy is worth a pound of ambition.--- Michael Korda

-- 
------ Sujal Shah ---- sujal@worldnet.att.net

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