The eight values of free expression is the reason society is allowed to function properly. Each of the eight values highlight a distinct manner where first amendment benefits people's personal lives as well as the United States as a whole. Since they have a direct impact on the strength and integrity of democratic processes, I identify most strongly with the ideals of Participation in Self-Government and Check on Governmental Power. Because they emphasize the value of making educated decisions and defending individual rights, two things that are critical to a just society, these principles also feel the most personal to me.
One very important aspect of democracy is participation in self-government. I really believe in the idea that voters are essential in making decisions. Citizens in modern civilizations are responsible for electing leaders and establishing laws that affect their daily lives. People must have access to a variety of viewpoints and information in order for this to happen successfully and enable them to make educated decisions. People can now more easily express their opinions thanks to the growth of social media and digital platforms, but there are drawbacks as well, such as the increase of false information and advertisement.
The use of free speech in an informed voter is more critical than ever in today's world due to the popularity of social media platforms. For example, the spread of false information on social media during the recent 2025 presidential elections has raised concerns about how free speech can be twisted for political gains. This highlights the importance of being alert and responsible when using this information as credible sources. Even though there is a chance that people will still spread false information, participation in self-government is important since it guarantees that people can openly express their opinions and access a variety of ideas. This allows citizens to make educated decisions for society which is vital for democratic processes.
The Check on Governmental Power is another value that really resonates with me. This principle shows the importance that free speech has in making governments accountable for their decisions. It opens the door for transparency and honesty. Open communication between the public and the media allows them to disclose wrong by the government, corruption, and abuse of power. The ability to question those in authority is important because it allows us to ensure that their is fairness and honesty in a country. Given increasing concerns about political corruption, government spying, and a lack of accountability, the idea that free speech serves as a "watchdog" over government actions seems to be more important today.
1. Marketplace of Ideas - Free expression allows debate and discussion to reveal the truth.
2. Participation in Self-Government - Free speech guarantees that people have access to a variety of opinions.
3. Stable Change - The idea that it is acceptable to give voice to groups of individuals who are feeling excluded.
4. Individual Self-Fulfillment - Having the freedom to express ourselves helps us feel like individuals with different opinions.
5. Check on Governmental Power - This focuses on the press's ability to reveal any abuses of authority by the government.
6. Promote Tolerance - This suggests that the more we experience things that anger us, the better off we will be since it will make us more tolerant in other areas of life.
7. Promote Innovation - By promoting a diversity of viewpoints, societies that uphold free speech encourage creativity.
8. Protect Dissent - Viewpoints are protected by the First Amendment, which gives citizens the confidence to question authority figures.
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