Why is hate speech not considered a hate crime?

Question

Also, please answer my other question. Answers didn't post it right: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=ApGBJn4jnSMssriM9ILtiE_sy6IX;_ylv=3?qid=20080821110240AA3xlDB

Answer 1

I wouldn't consider speaking as a crime, so it couldn't really be a hate crime if a crime didn't take place. You can't make it illegal to hate. It's when people act upon the hate that they get into trouble. In that respect, their actions are a crime anyway so I'm not sure that it is necessary to label it a hate crime.

Answer 2

That's the first step down a long slippery slope.  Hate crimes are ridiculous anyway.  A crime is a crime, it doesn't matter what motivates it.

Answer 3

Hate speech can be considered "political speech" because of our political history. Thus, it is protected by the first amendment. Whether it is MORAL or not, that is up to you to decide. Hope this helps a bit :)

Answer 4

Negative words generally come from angry people, or those who were brought up in homes that did the same.  When the shoe is put on the other foot (situation reversed),  then it becomes 'Hate'.  As far as the laws, that is up to the citizens of your town, city, neighborhood to get out and change the bad so you and yours can be safe to enjoy life without Hate.  God Bless America.....

Answer 5

Freedom of Speech!

Answer 6

Are we supposed to start jailing people for what they SAY?  Although a lot of left-wing nut job liberals are trying to do just that, the Constitution protects us...........for now.

Answer 7

Hate speech is protected by the 1st Amendment. I feel all crime is hate crime so a seperate classification isn't needed.

Answer 8

Do you really want to live in a country where you can be locked away for saying bigoted things?  Should we live in a country where people have to form secret societies so they can safely express their views?  I hope you don't think like that or anyone else for that matter.  

Answer 9

Freedom of speech

Answer 10

because of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States.

Answer 11

Because there's no crime involved.  Not really that complicated.

We're allowed to express our feelings.  And as long as that's as far as we go.. that's OK.

But seriously, is there something other than a hate crime?  I'm going to go murder somebody.. but I feel no hate?  Come on..  It's BS politically correct bit of nonsense.  A crime is a crime is a crime.