Item 4 in The Satanic Temple's Seven Fundamental Tenets
Respect for the freedoms of others
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.
- Position
- 4
- Form
- Mixed formulation
- Obligation
- Context-dependent
- Wording status
- Translation
- Intended audience
- Members and supporters of The Satanic Temple
- Last reviewed
- 28 June 2027
Names and terminology
Canonical name: Fourth tenet
Original term: Fourth tenet
Transliteration: Fourth tenet
Source wording
<p>Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.</p><p><em>Editorial paraphrase; consult the linked source for full wording and context.</em></p>
Literal meaning
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.
Broader interpretation
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.
Historical context
This principle belongs to The Satanic Temple's Seven Fundamental Tenets and must be read within that framework's setting.
Practical meaning
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.
Ethical purpose
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment.
Exceptions and disputes
Flexible interpretation prevents rigid literalism but requires explicit reasons and accountability.
Variations across schools or traditions
Other Satanic organisations and independent Satanists use different texts, symbols and ethical systems.
Modern application
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment. Modern application should consider consent, evidence, proportionality, power and consequences.
Criticism and difficult cases
Flexible interpretation prevents rigid literalism but requires explicit reasons and accountability.
Truth By Reason analysis
Respect others' freedoms, including expression that may offend, without unjust encroachment. Application should preserve the ethical purpose while avoiding coercion, discrimination and preventable harm.
Ethical themes
Sources
- The Satanic Temple — Seven Fundamental Tenets Primary source