The Eight Values of Free Expression are principles that guide our nation in a civil manner. They provide the foundation for a democratic society where individuals can actively participate, challenge authority, and foster progress. These values uphold the ideals of truthfulness, accountability, and inclusivity, ensuring that all perspectives and opinions are acknowledged. By protecting these freedoms, society can maintain a stable environment where ideas are exchanged, creativity expands, and injustices are confronted. Without these Eight Values of Expression, we would be unable to express our thoughts, and our words would be censored or suppressed. While all Eight Values of Free Expression hold significance, two are especially important to me: stable change, individual autonomy, and self-fulfillment.
Stable Change
Stable change empowers citizens to express themselves without fear, which creates a balanced and peaceful society. This freedom creates space for organized dialogue and prevents the dangerous consequences of silencing individuals. When people don’t get to express their opinions or beliefs, violence can occur, leading to extreme measures. By allowing for free expression, stable change creates a safer, more equitable environment where progress is possible.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 exhibits stable change because it demonstrates how to achieve systemic change through peaceful activism and legislative processes. This measure maintained the integrity of democratic processes while addressing significant disparities. It ensured that minority voices, especially those of Black Americans, were heard. It emphasizes the close relationship between free expression and the freedom to vote. This resonates with me because it demonstrates how individuals and communities can work together within a solid framework to create long-term change.
This resonates with me because it shows how individuals and groups can collaborate within a solid framework to achieve long-term change.
Individual Autonomy and Self-Fulfillment
One of the Eight Values of Free Expression that is the most important to me is promoting individual autonomy and self-fulfillment. Free expression allows me to share my beliefs and opinions. As a Strategic Communications major, expressing my unique ideas gives me the freedom to explore and communicate my thoughts personally and professionally. This aligns with my goals of influencing others and positively impacting society. Finding and exploring one's true self is essential for one's growth as a person.
An example of individual autonomy and self-fulfillment for me is studying abroad in Australia this May. I will immerse myself in a new culture and gain firsthand experience of how strategic communications are applied during the trip. This opportunity will help me grow both personally and professionally by stepping outside my comfort zone, broadening my global perspective, and engaging with new ideas. It will also deepen my understanding of how different cultural perspectives influence communication strategies and public engagement. Australia’s focus on community-based conservation efforts illustrates how individual actions, when communicated effectively, can lead to collective change. Studying environmental conservation efforts will enable me to explore how strategic communications can inspire public awareness and motivate sustainable behaviors within stable change.
Free expression is the foundation of diverse thoughts and viewpoints, enabling people to learn from each other and grow in ways they could not achieve alone. It allows the "vox populi," or people's voice, to shape governance and influence public discourse, ensuring that leaders are accountable to their citizens’ wants and concerns. This was especially significant during the COVID-19 pandemic when differing views on government demands such as lockdowns and vaccine requirements sparked debates regarding personal liberties versus community safety. Although contentious, these discussions underscored the critical role of free expression in balancing public health and individual liberty.
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