Blog Post #3

Reflection on the 8 Values of Free Expression

    The eight Values of Free Expression emphasize the importance of open communication, accountability, societal progress, and personal development. They discuss how sharing ideas helps people discover truth and encourages innovation. These principles also highlight the essential role of free expression in maintaining a just society. Together, they underscore the connections of free expression with liberty, equity, and progress. Personally, I believe that the value of Individual Self-Fulfillment (Self Actualization) resonates most with me because it emphasizes the personal aspect of free expression. I believe that the ability to express oneself authentically and discover "kindred spirits" is a deeply empowering aspect of free expression. It emphasizes human dignity, and I find it inspiring that free speech allows people to build their identities and communities through shared experiences and ideas. We live in a time where expressing our identities and ideas through art, writing, social media, public speeches, and more is central to who we are. It is crucial for creativity and connections. Although self actualization resonates most with me, I believe the most important value of free expression is one's Participation in Self Government. Society thrives on informed decision making, and free speech ensures that citizens can engage in debates and have access to diverse opinions and perspectives. Without it, governance becomes inauthentic and disconnected from the citizens it serves. This feels especially urgent in a world where misinformation and restrictions on speech threaten electoral integrity and public trust. Protect Dissent feels most personal to me because it emphasizes the importance of minority opinions and standing up against the majority if and when it is necessary. This value upholds the right to speak truth to power, even in the face of widespread opposition. Janet Joyner's legal battle against the Forsyth County Commission's exclusive practices reflects how dissent upholds fairness. Her courage to oppose the status quo resonates with me, as it highlights that speaking out is not just a right, it is often a responsibility. It is our patriotic duty to criticize the government. Even when it feels risky or isolating, this value affirms that standing against popular opinion is essential for progress. We see many of these values in today's world and society, yet the value of Check on Governmental Power (Watchdog Role) is highly visible today, everywhere. From investigative journalism to social media platforms, this value is at the forefront of modern life and society. Citizens and journalists actively use free expression daily, to highlight governmental issues and demand change, demonstrating its relevance and necessity in modern day society. Scandals such as the misuse of power, corruption, or policy failures are all brought to light by the press and citizens. Social platforms are able to amplify movements that challenge governmental decisions, such as protests. We see this value in everyday life when journalists face risks to reveal the truth, citizens use platforms to use their voice and question authority. This role is a reminder that freedom of expression is not just about personal rights, but also a safeguard for people.