Blog #5 - Free Expression

Free Speech is one of the most valuable rights we have as Americans. This week, we learned about the eight different theories scholars use to describe the importance of expression for Americans. After reading through each one and why it is so important and valuable, I seemed to resonate with number seven the most.

 The seventh value of free expression is to Promote Innovation. This was written in Living Originalism by Jack Balkin. This theory suggests that when individuals are allowed free speech, they are more likely to be more energized, creative, and interactive. Personally, I believe this is very important for every individual in this world especially with social media playing a big part in everyone's life. I believe that social media has an influence on all of our lives. It is a place that can be someone's best friend or worst enemy. But social media is a place where people all over the world can connect with one another and engage in many diverse and interesting ways. The freedom of speech that all Americans have make social media platforms such as twitter and facebook very interesting places. People all over the world are on these social platforms but with the freedom of speech we have here in the states, Twitter and Facebook have become places for people to engage in many different conversations about many different places. People on these social platforms discuss things that range from politics to music, to sports and even video games. 

 Although some posts may receive negative criticism from different users, our freedom of speech allows people the opportunity to express how they feel on certain topics and issues. For example, just recently comedian Bill Burr got some harsh criticism from people on the internet for his monologue on Saturday Night Live (Bill Burr SNL Standup). These social media platforms allowed people from all over the world to communicate and be interactive with one another to talk about the incident from SNL. 

 These social platforms also allow people to be creative and show off their talents. For example, one of my best friends Spencer Hazen, uses his twitter and instagram accounts to show off his graphic design work he does. His account for these designs has gotten him some well deserved attention and even a job. Our freedom of speech has allowed not just Spencer but millions of Americans a chance to express themselves, engage with others, and be more interactive. 

 Overall, I believe that the most important theory that scholars use to describe the importance of expression for Americans is to Promote Innovation. Throughout this year, we saw how important the freedom of speech and expression is to Americans and how much it should be valued.