Eight Values of Free Expression and Their Impact on Modern Society

First Amendment

Freedom of speech, press, and expression are not only American ideals, but also fundamental pillars supporting democracy itself. Jefferson, Madison, and other founders emphasized that these freedoms are essential for an informed, active, and self-governing society. Over time, eight core values of free expression have emerged to explain why the First Amendment matters today. 

The Eight Values of Free Expression

1. Marketplace of Ideas (Discovery of Truth)

Marketplace of Ideas Cartoon
"Just how fresh are these ideas?"

Truth emerges when ideas "grapple" or compete. The concept is grounded in the belief that if people have access to all information and opinions, they will ultimately discern truth from falsehood. This is present in today’s landscape of digital and social media platforms, where vast amounts of information compete for attention. However, it also raises concerns about misinformation and content moderation, so balancing this open marketplace with responsible discourse is crucial. Famous cases like the Pentagon Papers decision and New York Times v. Sullivan underscore the importance of letting information circulate freely without government interference.

2. Participation in Self-Government

A healthy democracy depends on free expression. This allows voters access to all perspectives necessary to make informed decisions.  Freedom of expression ensures that citizens hear directly from candidates and advocates of policy positions, leading to informed voting and political engagement. This value is noticeable during elections when diverse viewpoints help shape public opinion which makes self-governance through democratic participation possible. If we don't have free speech, we don't have that democracy.

3. Stable Change (Safety Valve)

Civil Rights March on Washington in 1963

Societies are more stable when individuals are allowed to express dissent freely rather than suppressing grievances until they boil over. By permitting free expression, governments allow people to vent frustrations, reducing the likelihood of more destructive actions. This idea, seen in events like peaceful protests and public demonstrations, reinforces that when grievances are aired openly, stability is maintained as people feel their voices are valued.

4. Individual Self-Fulfillment

Freedom of speech is key to personal growth and identity. By allowing people to express their thoughts, beliefs, and creativity, society fosters individual autonomy and self-actualization. This value is especially personal, as expression is tied to one’s dignity and individuality. Today, platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and blogs enable people to share personal stories and passions, connecting with others and reinforcing self-worth and identity.

5. Check on Government Power (Watchdog Role)

This is one of the most crucial values, as it keeps governmental abuse in check through public scrutiny. The media and individuals act as watchdogs, exposing government abuses and holding leaders accountable. Cases like Watergate highlight this role and show how press freedom and investigative journalism enable citizens to learn about corruption and act at the ballot box or in protests. This value also applies to digital media, where online platforms and independent journalists scrutinize and report on governmental actions, expanding the watchdog role to a wider audience.

6. Promote Tolerance

By protecting even offensive or extreme speech, society becomes more resilient and tolerant. Allowing free expression, even for disagreeable or extreme views, teaches society valuable lessons about boundaries and acceptable norms. When hate speech is countered by positive, constructive responses, communities can develop greater tolerance and a better understanding of societal norms. In this way, harmful speech can serve as an opportunity for society to learn and reinforce values of respect and tolerance.

7. Promote Innovation

Free expression fosters an environment where diverse ideas can flourish, leading to innovation and progress. A society committed to free expression is more creative and energized since individuals can explore diverse ideas without fear of censorship. This value has helped make the U.S. a leader in technological and cultural innovation, with free speech and creativity driving advancements in tech, art, and science. Today, tech startups, open-source communities, and artistic platforms reflect this principle and illustrate how freedom of expression continues to spark growth.

8. Protect Dissent

Minority views in a democratic society are just as important as the majority views. The First Amendment protects unpopular or minority opinions, reinforcing that democracy isn’t ruled solely by majority opinion. This principle means that even if the majority of people believe in a policy, the dissenting minority has the right to speak against it. Dissent ensures that decisions are debated and tested, leading to well-rounded governance that considers multiple perspectives. Voices of opposition help maintain balance and prevent “mob rule.”

Reflections and Connections

I see the "Marketplace of Ideas" as extremely relevant today as it trusts the public to evaluate information independently, even amid misinformation and sensationalism. In an era of "fake news" and polarizing viewpoints, this marketplace is often criticized, yet it remains essential for democracy, as it encourages open debate and promotes a search for truth. I see it every day as I navigate social media platforms. Content moderation on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter often highlights the challenges of balancing an open marketplace with the need to manage harmful content.

With the rapid spread of information via social media and independent journalism, the "Check on Government Power" is another important and relevant value. Platforms like Instagram and Twitter have become spaces for real-time reporting and activism. This empowers citizens share the news that matters to them and hold leaders accountable. For example, I've seen that social media has enabled the public to expose police abuses and demand justice which reinforces the role of a free press in checking government actions and supporting social justice movements.

Although it was ratified over 230 years ago, the First Amendment remains vital because it empowers individuals, supports societal progress, and encourages government accountability. As our society becomes more connected and information more accessible, these values of free expression continue to shape and strengthen democracy.

The U.S. Supreme Court

The Supreme Court Building

The U.S. Supreme Court is viewed by many as a stoic, distant body, but it is an institution that has shaped the trajectory of American history through its interpretations of the Constitution. Two videos I watched (Part I and Part II) provided a deep dive into the inner workings and profound impacts of the Supreme Court as well as offered insights into its role as a guardian of liberty and a decider of the nation’s most crucial legal disputes.

Private Chambers of the Supreme Court

The Court’s Intricate Process

One of the most interesting aspects of the video was the journey of a case through the Supreme Court. The process begins with thousands of written petitions filed each year, from which the Court selects only about a hundred for full consideration. For me, the most surprising thing to learn was that in each Term of the Court (which begins on the first Monday in October and lasts until the first Monday in October of the next year), approximately 5,000-7,000 new cases are filed in the Supreme Court. This amount of cases is significantly larger than was presented to the Court in the past. For instance, In the 1950 Term, the Court received only 1,195 new cases. This was explained on the Supreme Court’s Official Website. In their private chambers, the nine justices deliberate on these petitions (ranging from prisoners’ rights cases to significant national issues like presidential powers). This stage is crucial and reinforces the Court’s role in shaping national policy and individual rights. The video highlighted the statement from Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, describing their deliberations as "the quiet of a storm center," a metaphor that beautifully captures the intense, yet understated, nature of their work.

The Supreme Court as composed June 30, 2022 to present.

Changing Perceptions Before watching these videos, I saw the Supreme Court as a distant, almost unapproachable group that is removed from the lives of everyday Americans. However, I now see that the justices are deeply engaged, not just as legal scholars, but as individuals with a strong commitment to fairness and independence. Their lifetime appointments mean they often serve well beyond the terms of the presidents who nominated them, which allows them to focus on long-term constitutional principles rather than shifting political trends. In their approach to decision-making, they emphasize respectful dialogue and consensus, carefully weighing each viewpoint before reaching decisions. This collaborative spirit and commitment to impartiality make the Court feel far less removed than I originally thought. It is instead a living institution committed to interpreting the Constitution in a way that serves both justice and the public good.

The Takeaway My most important takeaway about the Supreme Court is its dynamic natureMy most important takeaway about the Supreme Court is its dynamic nature. It functions not only as the final interpreter of the law but as an evolving institution that adapts to meet the nation’s changing needs. This flexibility allows the Court to uphold core constitutional principles while addressing modern issues like digital privacy and equality. The Court remains relevant, ensuring that the law serves the public and reflects evolving values. It is not just a judge of the law but an evolving body that responds to the nation's needs and the nuances of societal progress.

Top 5 Sources

When it comes to staying up to date with the latest news and information, I find myself relying on a mix of outlets. My top five most-used news sources offer a well-rounded approach to staying informed:

5. NBC 

For national and international news, I trust NBC. I like how they offer a good balance of breaking news, political coverage, and feature stories. NBC is a reliable source for when I want more detailed reporting or in-depth analysis on larger topics. Their evening news broadcasts are a staple for catching up on the day’s biggest stories, while their website and mobile app make it easy to get headlines on the go. Although they may have a slight political lean, NBC still provides reliable and comprehensive news coverage.

4. ESPN

As a big sports fan, ESPN is where I turn for all things related to athletics. Whether it's keeping up with the latest scores, player trades, or game analysis, ESPN covers everything I need to stay informed about my favorite teams and sports. Their coverage of major sporting events, like the NFL and MLB seasons, is unmatched, and I appreciate their expert commentary on a wide range of sports. The 24/7 nature of ESPN ensures I never miss out on important updates, especially during busy seasons like playoffs or championships.

3. News 12 Long Island

For my home local news, I rely on News 12 Long Island, a regional news network that provides comprehensive coverage of Long Island events and issues. Whether it's weather updates, local politics, or traffic reports, this station helps me stay connected with what’s happening in my community. Local news is often overlooked, but it’s essential for understanding the events that directly affect me. News 12 is also a trusted source for any breaking stories that may have a broader impact beyond Long Island.

2. Word of Mouth (Family and Friends)

I often learn about significant events through conversations with family and friends. This "word of mouth" source of news is especially important because it comes with personal insights and opinions, which can shape how I think about certain topics. Sometimes I’ll hear about a breaking story from a phone call or group chat before I even get the chance to see it on social media. Whether it’s a major political event, sports news, or something local happening, these conversations with people I trust provide an authentic, human perspective on the news.

1. Instagram

Instagram is my go-to platform for quick news updates. While it’s primarily known as a social media platform for photos and videos, I follow a variety of news accounts, influencers, and even public figures who regularly post about current events. What I like most about Instagram is the visual aspect. It’s easy to scroll through stories or posts to get a sense of what’s trending without having to read long articles. The platform’s quick-hit content is easy to consume throughout the day, whether it's breaking news from a major outlet or commentary from people I follow. Of course, I’m mindful to verify any serious news before fully believing it due to the quick spread of misinformation, but Instagram is a great starting point for discovering what’s happening.

Conclusion

My mix of news sources keeps me connected to a broad range of information, from local happenings to national sports and global events. Instagram and word of mouth provide quick, immediate updates, while News 12, ESPN, and NBC offer more comprehensive coverage of the stories that matter most. This mix helps me to stay well-rounded in how I consume news and stay informed, but I now realize that I could and should view more sources (including some of the smaller blogs and stations) to get more perspectives.