Blog 3: Eight Values of Free Expression

Eight Values

    After taking the time to read the Eight Values of Free Expression it was complicated to choose only one that is most important to me. I believe that each and every one of the eight values deserve to be talked about and they are all important to us Americans. Essentially free expression is here to provide evidence that the government can not stop us from saying and doing as we please. The first amendment guarantees people can express themselves without the fear of criticism or legal action.

    The first one is the Market of Ideas which simply states that the truth will always win, so if a lie is told the truth will come out and win. The second is Participation in Self-Government which when it comes to elections citizens will make wise decisions. The third is Stable Change which allows society to speak freely and vent out. Fourth is Individual Self-Fulfillment which allows for free speech and to be able to live freely on your own. Fifth is Check on Governmental Power which allows individuals to make a change at the ballot box if they feel it is needed. Sixth is Promote Tolerance which teaches us that the first amendment protects hate speech. Seventh is Promote Innovation which provides us with a community that is highly energized and willing to fulfill themselves in different ways. Last is Protect Dissent states that from the First Amendment you have the right to disagree with the government. Now that I have given a brief explanation of the eight values of free expression I will share with you which one resonates with me the most.

    Out of all the eight values of free expression, the one that sticks with me the most is Individual Self- Fulfillment. From the provided text the explanation of Individual Self- Fulfillment is, "Free Speech enables individuals to express themselves and thereby create their own identity- and in the process perhaps, find kindred spirits. Freedom of speech thus becomes an aspect of human dignity, human agency, and autonomy." In other words, to describe Individual Self-Fulfillment, I would say that it provides the opportunity for people to be themselves and speak up on their own. Within the first amendment, it is stated that we are guaranteed freedom of expression. It is important especially in today's world that one can stand up for themselves and be able to speak what's on their mind with no judgment and be protected and supported by their community. One should not fear being looked down on when expressing themselves and what they believe in. 

    In today's world, social media causes a huge restraint on some people's freedom of speech. It prevents people from being able to post and speak their own minds because they have either once already gotten backlash from it or are afraid of getting hit with backlash. Social media is a great platform for those to express how they are feeling. Just by a simple political post, one can learn something about someone even if they have no idea who they are. Within Individual Self-Fulfilment it allows us to be individuals and show our true identity to our viewers.