Blog #3 - Eight Values of Free Expression

When discussing the eight values of free expression, one point was made very clear: it is not only beneficial but vital to the health of a society and democracy that individuals are able to freely express themselves in whichever way they may choose.

I know we continuously discuss the importance of the First Amendment, but we'd truly be living a different lifestyle without it. I would even argue that it is the keystone that holds the arch of our nation together. 

A Marketplace of Ideas

John Milton discusses a marketplace of ideas, one where all ideas freely flow no matter if they would be classified as good or bad. As a "free nation," the most contradicting idea would be a monopoly of thoughts and opinions, where the government has the power the filter what ideas can be expressed. The First Amendment protects the right of each individual to freely speak, worship, petition, and assemble; therefore, Milton argues no idea should be censored. Even if it is a bad idea.

This is a value that we can all observe today, especially through the content we create and post through social media platforms. Unlike any time period before, individuals hold an incredible amount of power in their finger tips and in their voice. Although not every idea or opinion would be classified as "good," Milton argues that a true marketplace of ideas must have a free flow of competing opinions so that the stronger arguments can shine through. 

"When truth and falsehood are allowed to freely grapple, truth will win out and grappling makes the truth even stronger," Milton claims.

Individual Self-Fulfillment

The easy access individuals have to social media can also be considered when discussing the value of individual self-fulfillment, or otherwise known as self-actualization. C. Edwin Baker presents the theory that free speech enables individuals to express themselves and thereby create their own identity. 

This value resonates with the attitudes and beliefs of my generation especially. We constantly emphasize the value of uniqueness and encourage others to be themselves; however, we have also created somewhat of a double standard. If you don't look and act like every other person, do you really meet societal standards? Are you truly accepted by those around you if you're not a carbon copy of every other girl or boy your age?

This double standard was the premise of the film "Barbie" released last year that dissected the doll's standing in the world and how it relates to the ways in which we construct our own identities. The film was well-received by many women who felt they could relate to the pressures they face from society to always act and speak a certain way. 

C. Edwin Baker argues that free expression is a necessary aspect of human dignity, agency and autonomy. His theory is important, if not the most, when it comes to free expression. We as humans must have the ability to make our own decisions about how to feel, look, act, speak; otherwise, we will never be able to reach the level of self-actualization.

Promotion of Innovation

Similarly, Jack Balkin discusses the value free expression has in promoting innovation within a society. He argues that a community in which free speech is valued and protected is more likely to be energized, creative and interesting. 

I found this theory interesting because I had never really considered the impact protected speech has on creativity and innovation, but it honestly made sense. When we think of countries whose citizens lack the ability to freely express their thoughts and opinions, such as North Korea, Cuba, Syria, we see an underdeveloped society. We see a society that is oppressed and metaphorically stunted in its growth. 

In the United States, we are technologically and socially advanced because of our protected rights under the First Amendment. According to Balkin, U.S. citizens are able to actively fulfill themselves in many diverse and interesting ways. This self-fulfillment produces a society which thrives off of the free flow of ideas leading to growth, evolution and innovation.

Blog Post #2 - Workings of the Supreme Court

The U.S. Supreme Court is not made up of disembodied spirits but living, breathing people. 

This statement was one of my biggest takeaways when learning more about the Supreme Court and its principal role in our democracy. 

As the highest court in the federal judiciary of the United States, the Supreme Court has ultimate jurisdiction over all federal court cases. More importantly, they have jurisdiction over all state cases that involve a point of the U.S. constitutional or federal law. They are the primary interpreter of the Constitution.

1801 marked a significant change in the court system as John Marshall assumed his role as Chief Justice, and in the Marbury v. Madison case that followed just two years later, Marshall established the principle of judicial review. This was a key addition to the system of "checks and balances" and confirmed the Supreme Court as a co-equal branch of government.

The Supreme Court draws the boundaries of federal power and, therefore, cannot avoid controversy. The nine Justices understand that they do not have the original Constitution but one that is consistently evolving. They harp on the idea that the meaning of "We the People," has changed overtime. In 1789, the phrase "We the People," did not include all individuals living in the U.S., especially not women and enslaved African Americans.

The 27 amendments made to the Constitution allowed for change as we, as a society, grew and evolved.

Learning more about the duties and responsibilities of a Justice was what I found to be most interesting. According to the documentary, most Justices serve an average of 16 years; however, many serve even longer. William O. Douglas served 36 years, making him the longest serving Justice to this day. Each of these individuals are truly dedicating a large portion of their life to the betterment of our country.

Expecting a large amount of collaboration, it was surprising to learn that the Justices only meet once a week to decide which cases will go to court. It is the opinion writing that is most time consuming of a Justice's work.

Every time they meet, each Justice shakes every other Justices' hand, further establishing a relationship of respect and honor. They understand there may be disagreements, but each argument is valid and deserves to be brought to the table for discussion. Many people assume the Court is secretive, but it's purpose and the cases that they deal with are rather open. There is no inside story. It's people simply thinking.  

Blog Post #1 - Top Five News Sources

 In an age of technology where society is constantly consuming the media around them, it is necessary that we have some control of what we consume. It is also crucial that we are receiving information from reliable and trustworthy sources. However, this is easier said than done as content can now be created by anyone.

Social Media

I would have to argue that the majority of news and information I receive is from social media platforms, including Instagram and TikTok. Although these may not be the most reliable, they cover a variety of topics and often present both sides of a story. I do enjoy that I am able to interact with certain posts that focus on pressing issues and determine where I stand on the issues. Finally, I like that I am able to somewhat filter the news that appears on my feed based on the pages I follow. As a journalism student, I try to follow a few news organizations, such as the publications listed below, on these platforms so that I am consuming information from reputable sources.

Washington Post

The Washington Post has been one of my favorite publications recently, especially when keeping up with the 2024 presidential election. They cover a wide variety of news, but I typically focus on the politics and international news. One feature that I highly recommend to others is the Post's podcast The 7. This is especially helpful to those who don't have a lot of time in their day to be reading long news stories. This podcast quickly reviews the top headlines of each week day and includes brief summaries of some of the most hard-hitting stories.

New York Times

The New York Times is another publication that I will often use as a source of information. I don't feel I check this website as often as I do the Post, but it is very similar in the way it provides a variety of news and is updated frequently. Something that I really love about the Times are the writers. I appreciate that they are accurate and concise when telling a story. I tend to find the most engaging and compelling stories on the Times.

CNN

When it comes to broadcast news, I tend to watch CNN as it is convenient and easily accessible. They produce a daily broadcast that is only ten minutes covering a few of the most newsworthy stories. As someone with a busy schedule, I find this extremely helpful and enlightening. They are engaging with images and links and provide quick news when on the go. 

Word of Mouth

My final source of news and information would be those I surround myself with. I often discuss current events with my friends and family leading to a relationship where we inform each other. I am someone who really enjoys being present in life and to do this, I often limit my screen time on devices such as my phone and laptop. During times like these, I receive most of my information about what is happening in our world through the discussions I have with others rather than from direct sources of news.