McCarthy, in his speech, made a reference to the clash between the democratic bloc and the communist bloc not just as a struggle between two political theories or two different economic systems, but, to heighten the apprehensions and fears of his audience, as a struggle between good and evil. He declared that the war is actually between the moral-Christian-democracy and the immoral-atheist-Communism. He further frightened his listeners by telling them about the rapid spread of the red revolution in the past few years. He remarked that the enemy had infiltrated in their policy making institutions and they would soon be consumed if they did not respond back to the scourge of Communism.
In addition, to support his claim of an immoral Communism he quoted from Marks, Lenin and Stalin. He explained that in the eyes of Karl Marks, the founder of the Communist philosophy, the idea of “God” was just a ruse. To depict his listeners that Communism was an imminent threat and would be very lethal if they did not act immediately, he claimed to have a list, prepared by an investigation board, showing the name of the people who worked in the state department and who also had ties to Communist parties. The list was an evidence to portray the level of infiltration of communist ideology in the circles of the government.
Finally, it is not possible to reach an ideal balance between the right of free speech and the requirements of national security. There will always be a difference of opinion regarding this delicate balance. But, practically speaking, a balance must be maintained between the two, especially at a time of crisis. No one can deny the importance of freedom of speech, but it cannot be allowed at the expense of the national security and national interests; because if there remains no state then who will provide and protect people’s right. However, great care must be taken that unnecessary limitations must not be imposed on freedom of speech under the banner of national security. In the end, it is all about the right balance and all the stockholders of the country must be consulted in the creation this balance.
Work Cited
McCarthy, Joseph. "Enemies from Within." Wheeling, West Virginia. 9 February 1950. Speech
