Blog #3 Reflecting on Speech Theories

In learning about the importance of the first amendment, we must also consider the Eight Values of Free Expression, and how they might apply to issues of free expression today. 

The first theory outlined is "Marketplace of Ideas." Originally proposed by John Milton, this is essentially the idea that "when truth and falsehood are allowed to freely grapple", truth will win, and that truth will be made stronger. I see this as being true just from my own experience of having to defend a certain idea. If I am able to do it well, then someone will be convinced that what I am saying is factual, and therefore I also become more sure in what I think to be true because I have meaningful support, whereas a false claim will not have strong support. 

The second concept is "Participation in Self-Government." It has always been important that we as citizens have a role to play in electing members of our governing body. We have a right to participate in these procedures so that those elected represent the values and goals of the public that is doing the electing. This theory suggests that officials should be allowed to freely communicate with the public and help them be sufficiently informed. 

The third theory outlined is "Stable Change." I really like this theory because it suggests that venting, or "ranting" as we might call it more frequently nowadays, is actually good and healthy for maintaining the peace. The public should be allowed to express their complaints to feel heard and more "stable", and in turn, the government is able to monitor such groups that speak out and address them as it becomes necessary. I think this is especially prevalent in the world of technology, since we can express our dislike for things instantly and constantly. If threats are made against a figure, like the President, on social media, the government and authorities can address that in a timely manner and prevent a possibly harmful situation. It is also worth noting the regulations that exist for public and private social media platforms, and how they might impact the possible "venting" that can take place on these networks. 

The fourth idea is "Individual Self-Fulfillment." This aspect of free expression allows us to create an identity for ourselves, and gives us a sense of autonomy separate from those that govern us. It's important that citizens feel they have control over their lives, even in the presence of rules and regulations, so that they don't perceive the government as tyrannical or abusive. 

The fifth concept is "Check on Governmental Power." Our system of checks and balances is crucial when it comes to the branches of government. No one branch should have more power than another, or abuse its power. Checks and balances ensure that fairness is maintained and justice remains a priority. Checks and Balances were established as part of the court case, US v. Alvarez. 

The sixth idea is "Promote Tolerance." This theory suggests that the protection of hate speech under the first amendment is valuable in establishing norms of acceptable behavior in that we deem this speech "wrong" in our society, though it remains legal. Additionally, it helps us build a tolerance of others in other aspects of life. 

The seventh concept is "Promote Innovation." Free speech is essential in effective collaboration and meshing of ideas. We should absolutely be allowed to freely express our ideas, interests, and passions which will make us a more engaged and diverse society. I think this also ties into the idea of censorship in that if innovative technology, like AI, began to pose a threat to the government and its power, there could be efforts made to prevent such collaboration of knowledge, and therefore they would be actively infringing on this right. 

The eighth, and final, theory is "Protect Dissent." We have a right to criticize the government- and we should! We can disagree, and make our opinions known. This is especially important in protecting minority views, and those that are unpopular. I think an obvious example of this would be in protesting for change. Even smaller, niche topics, any group holding signs and yelling things will draw attention, and sometimes the attention is enough to spark really change and make an impact.