Why this policies on flaming and swearing?

[English assassin]

Because conventional wisdom says that ... is wrong. Along with farting in crowded elevators

Wait, this is wrong? Hell.

What if you stare accusingly at the person next to you?

[econ21]

A particular problem with swearing on the internet is the absence of body language, tone of voice etc all the stuff you rely on in face to face contact to understand communication. We just see the cold hard text[1]. It's hard enough to avoid over-reacting when faced with a strong view expressed without swearing; if it were laced with expletives, it would be almost impossible.

[1]Hence the frequent use of smillies as softeners by Org staff.

[Soulforged]

Freedom, or lack of regulation?

Well lack of regulation, when it's rationally applicable, like in an space for discussion, wheter it's a forum in the internet or your house, makes it more free. This terms of rationallity are applied all along the law, like for example your first emendment or my article 17 of the Constitution.