Free speech lessons learned from Duck Dynasty

The A&E network has a real dilemma on its hands.

On one, it has made tons of money by airing a show about a Louisiana family that is anything but politically correct.

On the other, it's got a show about a Louisiana family that is anything but politically correct.

True to form, the Phil Robertson, patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family, spoke his mind when asked about homosexuality in the January issue of GQ.

After a graphic discussion of conventional and alternative sexual options, Robertson expanded the exchange to include promiscuity and bestiality, before resorting to his usual source of moral guidance, the Bible.

"Neither the adulterers, the idolaters, the male prostitutes, the homosexual offenders, the greedy, the drunkards, the slanderers, the swindlers -- they won't inherit the kingdom of God. Don't deceive yourself. It's not right.

Hollywood, naturally enough, was outraged, causing A&E to announce Robertson's suspension from the top-rated reality show.

Meanwhile Phil and the rest of the Robertson clan appeared on Barbara Walter's 10 Most Fascinating People of 2013 -- taped pre-GQ interview -- along with Miley Cyrus, who seems to have had trouble dealing with her own sexuality, finding it necessary to display her flesh and flesh-toned body on national television in ways that would get her arrested in most even-keeled communities if they were performed in a public place.

Phil Robertson's explanation of his position, released before his hiatus was announced, has received scant attention:

"I myself am a product of the '60s. I centered my life around sex, drugs and rock and roll until I hit rock bottom and accepted Jesus as my Savior. My mission today is to go forth and tell people about why I follow Christ and also what the Bible teaches, and aprt of that teaching is that women and men are meant to be together. However, I would never treat anyone with disrespect just because they are different from me. We are all created by the Almighty and like Him, I love all of humanity. We would all be better off if we loved God and loved each other."

Season four of "Duck Dynasty" will likely include appearances by Phil, since production is largely wrapped, according to the Hollywood Reporter.

Meanwhile, the "Support Phil Robertson" Facebook page had a quarter-million "likes" as this was being written this morning, and the A&E network was likely being deluged with emails, calls and social media posts.

Will Phil return to the air? Does it really matter to A&E, since reality TV shows have the shelf-life of a freshly-downed mallard?

It certainly won't matter to the Robertsons, who will continue to bring in millions through their products and endorsements.

But the whole controversy is a good reminder of just how rare, valuable and costly the freedom of speech can be to those who choose to exercise it.