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Post by cemab4y on Nov 2, 2008 2:22:25 GMT 10
In the USA, there are several Grand lodges, that have prior restraints on freedom of speech. Several Grand Lodges, restrict masons from having informal assemblies and clubs, outside of the tyled lodge.
Would a "Masonic Bill of Rights", serve to put a "check" on the possible abuse of power by Grand Lodges, against individual Masons?
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Post by Tamrin on Nov 2, 2008 7:00:10 GMT 10
I like the idea behind such a bill but doubt the practicality of a strict "Masonic Bill of Rights." I am afraid that, just as some well-meaning but misguided attempts at officially specifying our Ancient Landmarks, restrict otherwise legitimate reforms, a binding "Masonic Bill of Rights" may have unintended results.
Overall, countries without a Bill of Rights, such as the U.K. and Australia, do not appear to have a worse Human Rights record than those that do. When put to the test, as Masons, we might be expected to do what is right for its own sake, including insisting on our rights and those of others.
While I am in favour of appropriate rules and regulations, the difficulty with legislation requiring an extra-ordinary mandate to be amended, is that we may be unduly held back by the ghosts of the past.
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Post by devoutfreemason on Nov 4, 2008 4:32:39 GMT 10
I don't see the individual GL (feudal) system giving up it's authority anytime soon.
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Post by prometheus on Nov 4, 2008 7:03:35 GMT 10
In the USA, there are several Grand lodges, that have prior restraints on freedom of speech. Several Grand Lodges, restrict masons from having informal assemblies and clubs, outside of the tyled lodge. Would a "Masonic Bill of Rights", serve to put a "check" on the possible abuse of power by Grand Lodges, against individual Masons? Nope. There are no check and balance of powers. Without three branches of government, it ain't got a ghost of a chance. IMO P |
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