Eight values of free expression

When we first discussed the First Amendment, it was all about the time period in which it was established. It was all about how Jefferson, Madison, and the other founding fathers were reacting to the censorship, monarchs, and the punishment that came to those who spoke out. Freedom of speech and the freedom of the press were big issues back then, and that is still true today, but only to the extent that a democracy cannot exist without the freedom to speak out against those in power. Back then, the only way to speak out was to write books, but that has expanded into many different avenues. 

These ideas were not fully developed until later, especially the idea of the Marketplace of Ideas, which was introduced in 1919. It was then that scholars were no longer simply saying that freedom of speech is protected but were actually discussing the importance of the freedom of speech and how it benefits society. The eight free speech values help bridge the gap from the First Amendment to the present day. The one that really stands out to me is the Marketplace of Ideas. It is the idea that the truth will come out based on the ideas that are put out, and I think that this is something that is really relevant to today. Social media is like the marketplace, where there are so many different ideas, arguments, and evidence all out there.

Meanwhile, social media reveals the flaws in this theory. Why? Because social media is based on engagement, not truth. But the other path is a more dangerous path. Allowing government and/or media to dictate what is and isn’t “okay” to think will shut down the very process that allows truth to grow. The Marketplace of Ideas, though imperfect, keeps power decentralized. Self-government is also important. Democracy requires an informed and engaged citizenry. Free expression allows people to discuss policy, protest injustice, and engage in a community of shared concerns. Free speech is what makes democracy meaningful.

The safety valve concept is still relevant today. Social media is blamed for all the anger and venting going on, but releasing all this frustration actually keeps things stable. People will continue to be angry and resentful if you don’t let them express themselves. Expression is a very personal value to me. Expression helps people define who they are and their community by allowing them to share their stories and express themselves. Talking things out helps people define who they are.

The watchdog effect of free expression is also important. Journalists and those who express dissenting opinions are like a watchdog, protecting society from those in power. These values demonstrate that free expression is not just a constitutional right; it is a process.