Freedom of Expression

Freedom of speech, according to The Red Herring(1), is the freedom to speak freely without censorship or limitation. Freedom of speech, of the press, of association, of assembly and petition – these which, protected by The First Amendment, make up the grounds of which maintain our idea of freedom of expression.   Our oh so powerful Internet access we all have the ability to make use of gives us the ability to express nearly everything. Anyone who wants to express their opinion about anything can put their thoughts out there, available to the entire online world. Bluntly, our present Government has tried to restrict these freedoms for that very reason, certain expressions have surely gotten out of hand. And in these attempts, citizens argue it also violates basic human rights such as the right to privacy, freedom of expression and freedom of information (Amnesty International)(2).   My view on the matter is that yes, freedom of expression is essential and it is a basic right we are entitled to. It has led us to discovering and learning in abundance, and also the truth on certain matters. I believe we live in a free country where freedom is free, and we should have access to nearly everything but I think our Government should have righteous control and restriction over any supporting of national, racial or religious hatred or racism leading up to discrimination or violence (hate speech and such).   In contradiction, international human rights laws do not allow freedom of expression to be restricted being “…authorities say that it poses a risk to public order” (2), so I do not see how such prohibition could be possible in our country, although possible in other foreign countries; could it be possible our country allows almost too much freedom? Too undefined restrictions? I believe that America is progressing well with our current rights regarding freedom of expression, which indeed are protected under The First Amendment (hardly possible to adjust) – If change is... [continues]

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