8 Values of Free Expression

Over the course of this class, we’ve discussed how and why the First Amendment came to exist. Jefferson and Madison weren’t just thinking about their own era, but also about the possibility of a long-lasting democracy that couldn’t survive without liberty of speech and the press; they offered these reasons. I think what is most connected for me is how many of these theories relate to our ability to express ourselves today in the modern world, especially online and via social media platforms.

The first value that resonates with me personally is the Marketplace of Ideas, or the discovery of truth. This theory suggests that when ideas can circulate freely, the truth emerges more clearly because it can be challenged. I see this often on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X. For example, when news breaks, people immediately begin posting clips, reflections, and reactions. Sometimes it gets out of hand, but usually people can compare and contrast what is being said and assess for themselves. This relates to John Milton in Areopagitica, who suggests that the truth becomes even stronger when it is put into the public domain to be challenged rather than being sheltered. Yet while it sounds good in theory, social media also shows there are limitations, such as false truths spreading as quickly as true ones, or correct concepts not getting as much attention if they aren’t pushed by an emotion-driven algorithm. But I don’t think free expression is the issue in this case; rather, it’s critical thinking and media literacy that are lacking. The Marketplace of Ideas works, but only if people are willing to cooperate.

Similarly, the second value that relates to me personally is the Individual Self-Fulfillment theory. This theory explains how free expression helps people find themselves and share who they are with others. Today, that’s reflected through social media platforms, which many people use to share their experiences, advocate for the causes they believe in, or even just document their lives to connect with others. For marginalized communities, having access to speak on social media can make people feel as if they are finally seen and heard.

Connecting with others is also part of how social media helps illustrate and relate to the Check on Governmental Power theories that I’ve seen. The watchdog role is evident constantly on social media, as common citizens post videos or news stations conduct investigative journalism to uncover the truth about what government leaders have been up to. Watergate is a great example that might seem dated, but it relates to today's watchdog activities through social media news portals and independent journalists. There would be numerous instances of happenings today we would’ve never known if not for free expression.

Finally, Protecting Dissent feels newly relevant in today’s political world; while some unpopular opinions might upset people, dissent is part of how change happens. Protests, newsworthy developments, and open discussion show that democracy is alive and well, instead of problematic.

Ultimately, these Eight Values of Free Expression helped me because they connect the real-world applications we see daily to Jefferson and Madison’s reasoning for the First Amendment's existence in the first place. It isn’t just an abstract notion; it’s something that allows us to regularly express ourselves to others and then determine whether we all agree.