8 Values of Free Expression
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Each value of free expression illustrates how communication and expression more broadly dictate our personal and interpersonal lives. The values that resonate most with me are: protect dissent and individual self fulfillment. Whether it be to exhaust frustration like Benedict Spinoza suggests, or to voice disagreement with the government as Alexander Meiklejohn suggests, communication and expression is a fundamental component of how individuals move within a society.
The first value I would like to emphasize is protect dissent. Promoted by Steve Shiffrin, this value commands Americans, saying “it is your patriotic duty to criticize the government” (Speech Theories). Currently, there is so much debate on practically every issue in America. Whether it be gun laws or climate change, there is no topic that has not been called into question. Since we are faced with such incredibly urgent issues, we must continue debating. In a world that is pained by such chaos inside and out of civilian homes, submitting to whatever politicians argue is never safe. We are privileged to live in a democracy. However, as younger generations gain more responsibility to participate in voting and debating more broadly, we mustn't neglect our patriotic duty to remind the government of who they serve: We the people. Only by critiquing ourselves, each other, and our government can we carry out this civic duty.
I am tempted to add a caveat that emphasizes the importance of voicing these opinions respectfully when engaging in heated debates. However, the first amendment makes no excuses for offensive speech. While it may be morally wrong to be careless about the delivery of one's opinion, it is constitutionally protected under the first amendment. This leads me to my next point.
Another important aspect of free expression is how it is a component of self fulfillment. As suggested by Edwin Baker, “free speech represents one's human dignity and autonomy” (Speech Theories). Despite how we as Americans may have the right to voice whatever we wish to, by doing so, we illustrate an aspect of our identity. To me this means that despite Americans having the privilege to say nearly whatever we want, this privilege comes with a moral obligation. I personally proceed cautiously when discussing anything political. Unfortunately, a lot of people lie on the far ends of both the left and right sides of the political spectrum. By keeping discussions rooted in respect and the common goal of protecting our , I am able to have some very riveting conversations regarding these subjects. I believe by doing this I am fulfilling my dignity and autonomy by choosing to both voice my opinion and do so in a way which promotes community and respect.
It is such a blessing to live in a free nation. Unfortunately, many people, myself included, sometimes lose sight of how truly lucky we are. Just an ocean away there are people the same age as me who are terrified of the oppression that faces them, never mind able to post a blog dedicated to the values of free expression. We must remember this freedom, be grateful for it, and express that gratitude by having hard conversations and never neglect our right to voice our thoughts and opinions freely. We must fulfill that civic duty Steve Shiffrin refers to with enthusiasm and hope.
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