nuremberg files

I'm sure most people who pay attention to the abortion debate are aware of the ongoing controversy surrounding the so-called Nuremberg Files web site.

This is an ostensibly pro-life site that targets doctors who perform abortions. The site lists the names of the doctors, along with personal information such as their license plate numbers, addresses, and so on. Some of the doctors appear in Old West "Wanted" posters, as though they were desperados and outlaws, and whenever one of the doctors dies, the site crosses them off.

Columnist John Leo has an interesting take on the issue as it pertains to free speech, and implied threats. That groups like Planned Parenthood perceive a threat from the site is at once both obvious and understandable. On the other hand, no threat against abortionists is stated directly and no one is urged on this web site to kill the abortionists designated with "wanted" posters.

"Poor taste" doesn't begin to describe this sort of tactic. Such web sites clearly are meant to intimidate the abortion providers in question. If those responsible for posting the site claim to be Christians, I'd have a hard time agreeing that they're representing the character of Christ through such tactics.

It's going to be interesting to see how the Supreme Court handles it. My first inclination is to support free speech/free press, even in cases where that freedom is being abused, but no matter how the court rules, this case is going to have some far-reaching aftershocks.