The value of free expression: Promoting tolerance is rooted in tolerance theory, which states the first amendment protects hate speech and should be that way. This value profoundly resonates with me because I have been surrounded by politically strong-minded people in high school and college. Through these heated debates, I have learned that respecting others’ opinions has made me more tolerant of difficult conversations and events nationwide. Allowing yourself to be open and respectful to ideas will make you tolerant in all aspects of your life.
One of the most critical aspects of “Promote Tolerance” is that we don’t need a law banning hate speech. Society already has a system for punishing those who cross the line or take freedom of speech too far. For example, when Donald Trump and Alex Jones were banned from Twitter, they thought it violated their first amendment right. However, the first amendment does not protect private companies; Twitter has every right to take matters into its own hands to protect its users. This is a perfect example of how we don’t need our government to have checks and balances on us; private companies already have these settings in place.
Individual self-fulfillment is about individual liberty, which blossoms into human dignity, agency, and autonomy. C. Edwin Baker states in the novel Human Liberty and Freedom Of Speech, “The emphasis on “self” in self-fulfillment requires the theory to delineate a realm of individual liberty that allows for self-realization… Together the two imply a notion of freedom oriented toward self-realization and self-determination” (Baker 47-48). Human Liberty and Freedom Of SpeechThis quote is crucial because it goes to the root of our first amendment right: empowerment of the self. Understanding and embracing the power of the self is essential to be a better citizen. Through realizing and better understanding yourself over time, it will grow into a sense of fulfillment in your everyday life: your interactions, your actions, and the way you view the world.
Check on Governmental Power is one of the most critical aspects of the first amendment right; however, this right isn't welcomed or encouraged; instead, we feel unheard and ignored. Check on Governmental Power is the ability to speak freely on judging our government's choices; we have the right to participate in the check-and-balance system, especially regarding the abuse of power. Check on Governmental Power feels very personal due to the current climate with the overturn of Roe V. Wade. Women around America have shared their tragic stories with government officials, protested outside Washington D.C, and have made petitions and fundraising campaigns to prevent states from taking away their rights. Regardless of my viewpoint on Roe V. Wade, my right has been ripped away due to the beliefs and preconceived notions of white men in power. We have the first amendment right as American women to fight against lawmakers' decisions and abuse of power. However, this right doesn't feel respected anymore.
One of the most extraordinary things about our society today is the thousands of passionate innovators who create revolutionary products and platforms to better our community. When our government allows and embraces free speech of ideas, citizens are motivated to fulfill their goals and aspirations. America is a unique culture where TV shows like Shark Tank are praised for their passion and innovation. It’s our first amendment culture that fosters this creation and innovation. Compared to other countries like China, they typically manufacture the products, but the ideas come from Americans. The current invention is found through social media influencers, parents with ideas for safety for their children, college students who need better study habits: and this list continues.
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