1. I Will Mock Muhammad If I Want To…
Religion in Satire
Norman Ralph

2. What is Satire? Dictionary.com defines satire as:
the use of irony, sarcasm, ridicule, or the like, in exposing, denouncing, or deriding vice, folly, etc.
a literary composition, in verse or prose, in which human folly and vice are held up to scorn, derision, or ridicule.
a literary genre comprising such compositions.

3. Why Religion? Religion enjoys the celebrity of fame.
Religion is part of most people’s day to day lives.
Why not religion?

4. Where are we today? Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006
Changes to the Public Order Act (1986), inserted after Part 3A:
29J Protection of freedom of expression
Nothing in this Part shall be read or given effect in a way which prohibits or restricts discussion, criticism or expressions of antipathy, dislike, ridicule, insult or abuse of particular religions or the beliefs or practices of their adherents, or of any other belief system or the beliefs or practices of its adherents, or proselytising or urging adherents of a different religion or belief system to cease practising their religion or belief system.

5. Why this speech?
The events following the 2005 Jyllands-Posten Muhammad cartoons.
The continual threat of legal action against Fox et al when showing cartoons like The Simpsons.
The general reaction when joking about and ridiculing religion.

6. Why is satire important?
It shows flaws and folly in thought and deed.
It presents challenges to leaders and followers alike.
It’s funny because it’s true.

7. Thanks For Listening
Any questions?