The Value of Free Expression in Society

Society views free expression as a narrowly drawn line, viewed by the public and judged on by highly-ranked governmental officials. It is the cornerstone of democratic society and helps individuals express their ideals, challenge societal norms, and shape their identities. So, why is there still so much discourse around the way Americans can express themselves?

At the societal level, free expression lets diversity thrive through clothing, art, and speech. Individuals are allowed to express themselves and in turn, open themselves up to public opinion. As emphasized in Foucault's Problematization of Parrhesia, or fearless speech, free expression is not just the right to speak, but the courage to stand up for your truth. The document discusses our moral obligation as human beings to stick to honesty, even if a lie would suit us better. And, in the modern world, telling the truth in a world full of lies has become one of the only ways to hold others accountable, even if that means discomfort towards authority figures or those around us.

Additionally, free expression helps us build our own identities. Imagine a world where everyone dressed the same, shared the same ideas, and lived a universally-set life. It would be exhausting.

In Teresa Bejan's 'Two Concepts of Freedom (of Speech) she outlines that free expression is what makes someone a member of society. Expression itself not only defines what one says, but also who one is allowed to be, and when we take that away we become shells of the people we were meant to be.

The way we present ourselves in public is intentional, if you put on your favorite band's t-shirt it might lead to conversation the same way if you decide to try out a new hairstyle or color. Additionally, you might act a certain way around your closest friends or family members. However, the way you express yourself is up to you, and is a right you should want to protect.

But, what happens when free expression is limited by societal expectations? In Can the Subaltern Speak? by Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak the author discusses the structure society has set when it comes to marginalized voices. Spivak suggests that free expression must include the ability to be understood on our own terms, not those in positions of power or society itself. Thus, we must navigate within and be mindful of our own privileges and decide who we let dominate the narrative in society.

Now, in the digital age, free expression has taken on a whole new meaning, platform, and place to share our thoughts and opinions with not just those around us but those around the world. The internet has given us a place to connect with others, but it has also become a place of surveillance and silencing. In Films for the Feminist Classroom's Journal Issue by Elizabeth LaPensée and Nichlas Emmons the authors argue that historically marginalized groups use silence as a form of rebellion against modern forms of communication. However, people on the internet feel the need to share stories of marginalized groups that do this and they end up becoming the "spokespeople" for something that they frankly will never understand. Some, even monetizing off other's stories, which looses the point completely.

So, is free expression worth protecting? Absolutely. Without the ability to freely express ourselves we would not be living in a democracy and the world would be a bleak place lacking creativity and individuality. There would be no protest movements, whistleblowers, or people to challenge societal norms and engage in healthy discourse. However, as these readings illustrate, true free expression is more than a legal right; it is a cultural and ethical commitment to hearing and being heard. It is not a public or personal experience, it is and will always be both. As humans in the modern world, we don't get many choices on what we keep public anymore, but we do get to choose how we use free expression. And, with healthy conversations, courage, and inclusivity, even when it's uncomfortable, we can be the change we wish to see in the world.