Eight Values of Free Expression

         

        The eight values of free expression are marketplace of ideas which is the idea that when truth and false can freely fight in the market truth will win. The second is participation in self-government which is that if free speech is vital for people to make informed and wise decisions for voting. Third is stable change which is the idea that when angry citizens can freely express their beliefs violence is less likely to occur. The fourth is individual self-fulfillment which is the idea that when individuals can express themselves freely, they can live their lives the way they want to. The fifth is check on governmental power which is that when people can call the government out, they are less likely to wrongdoings. The sixth is promote tolerance this means that through free speech a more tolerant society is better. The seventh is promote innovation which is when a society can freely express themselves their creativity and innovation is better. The eighth and final is protecting dissent meaning people that disagree with the majority are protected. These beliefs are all necessary and apply today the two I will specifically focus on are participation in self-government and check on governmental power. 

        Participation in self-government applies today as this is still the backbone of our election system. In recent presidential elections turmoil between the two major parties have been extremely high.  Due to this turmoil participation has never been more vital as the democratic and republican parties grow further apart, for American’s to be pleased with the results more people need to participate. This is also important as it keeps the government in check and allows the people to keep their rights without them being affected. Another reason why this is till important is that it causes the American government change to what the citizens want and not what the people elected to power do. 

        Another value that still applies today is that of check on government power. The idea of checks on government power is still extremely important in today’s world to protect the democratic system that America set in place. By having three branches of government two of which are elected by the people can check each other limits the harm that one branch can do. This keeps individual branches from becoming too powerful over the others This value is still extremely important as it helps the government work together to help the people living within the country and gives the people a way to stop the government from passing unwanted or harmful laws or bills. It also allows the elections hold more weight as even if people disagree with the president, they may still have Congress. 

        

        Overall, while all the values are still vital in today’s day and age. As they aim to protect and ensure that the citizens first amendment right of free speech is being protected and not infringed upon. In my opinion the two mentioned in detail above those being, participation in self-government, and check on governmental powers are the two most important for citizens in the current political climate in the United States.