Newton's Third Law applies not just to objects in motion, but I believe to human relationships as well. Nothing exists in a vacuum. Including your speech on the internet. I have no problem with you being a jerk. Say jerky things, for all I care. But be prepared to live with the consequences, such as people saying jerky things back, getting punched in the nose, or getting fired.

Justin Hutchings went on a memorial page on Facebook that was set-up for Amanda Todd, a fifteen-year-old girl who committed suicide last week as a result of online bullying and exploitation, and wrote, "Thank God this bitch is dead." That's about as low as someone can get. But, again, if you want to say spiteful things about a recently deceased young girl, go ahead. It shows you lack both class and empathy. But, Justin thought his comment was "protected" somehow by free speech. Or, more importantly, misconstrued his right to say something freely and with immunity from the ability of others to respond, or act. That's not free speech. That is denial of response, which is not nearly as protected by the Constitution.

A Calgary mom alerted his employer, Grafton-Fraser Inc. which owns Mr. Big and Tall Menswear, and they promptly fired him. They did not want to be associated with him anymore, which really means they felt his employment could have serious negative consequences in terms of publicity. Why do people not get that social media sites, such as Facebook, are media sites? You are broadcasting your words, your views, your thoughts to the world. And people can use those words against you. Tell the world who you work for, and they'll contact the employer and make them aware of those words.

Even if Hutchings filed an unlawful dismissal case, what could he hope for? A year's salary? If he was making $50,000, Grafton would never risk the lousy PR for a mere $50,000. They were quick, clean, and decisive. And if Hutchings wants to go to court and remind the world what a jerk he was, and that Grafton has no right to fire him for being that jerk, good luck to him. I applaud Grafton for terminating his unemployment. They would only benefit from his legal claims in terms of positive feedback.

Now, does this put a chill on unpopular or obnoxious speech? I doubt it. People say rotten things all the time. But, would you go on the radio, state your full name, who your employer is, and then say, "Thank God this bitch is dead." No, you wouldn't. But, if you did, you should expect that people might have a reaction to your words. And it may not be one you like.