Depp vs Heard: A trial by TikTok?

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It's common for the US to call itself the land of free speech, and for the West to criticise Asia for perceived restrictions on what people can say. But the truth is that free speech is an illusion. In a civilised society, people do not have a right to say whatever they please.

 Depp sued Heard over an op-ed she wrote in The Washington Post in which she claimed to be a victim of domestic abuse. Depp said that her article damaged his career and reputation.

But I am sadder still that I seem to have lost a right I thought I had as an American - to speak freely and openly."

the Virginia trial, was widely broadcasted on the internet, watched and commented. Polls showed that people cared more about the Depp-Heard case than the Ukraine war or a historic US Supreme Court ruling on abortion.

Online conversations showed that the vast majority sided with Depp, and distrusted Heard.

In theory, social media should not affect the jury, as its members should isolate themselves from outside influence. Still, given the massive coverage of the trial, one must wonder how a jury in a long, high-profile trial can remain immune from comments, memes and opinions from friends and family.

Proponents say that broadcasting trials engender public confidence in the legal system. Opponents say that they affect the outcome and place pressure on everyone in court. 

Qns:

1. To what extent is it possible ‘to make the punishment fit the crime’? (Cam. 2013)

2. 'Freedom of choice is too high a price for society to pay.' Do you agree? (ACJC J2 Term 2 Test)

3. ‘In a free society, there should be no restrictions on freedom of speech.’ Discuss. (Cam. 2020)