I’m not inclined to defend South Park. On the whole, the show is tasteless, offensive and not something I would ever allow my children to watch.
However, I do defend Parker and Stone’s right to free speech, even if – especially if – I don’t like what they are saying. Without that coda, as Voltaire recognized, the very principle has no meaning.
In my latest book Shtick Shift, I devote an entire chapter to South Park’s treatment of stereotypes revolving around Jews and affluence. I may not like the program, but millions do, and it is one of the most important satirical shows of our time.