Speech Theories

 There are eight key values of free expression. These are theories or philosophies that help determine the true meaning behind the first amendment. They allow us to think critically about how important our first amendment rights are and how crucial it is to ensure that the government does not infringe upon them. Of all eight speech theories, three of them are extremely relevant in today's society.  

The first is the theory of stable change, by Benedict Spinoza. “It has been suggested that a society in which angry and alienated citizens are allowed to speak their mind, or "vent," will be more stable, as people will be less likely to resort to violence.  It has also been pointed out that allowing the alienated and discontented to speak freely enables government to better monitor potentially dangerous groups who would otherwise act more clandestinely. Ultimately, it is in the government's own self-interest to allow such venting.” I feel that this is extremely important to us as American citizens because it allows us to criticize the government. Without the freedom to express hate speech, it prevents us from holding the government accountable. It enables us to protect our first amendment rights. Without the ability to vent, there would be even more riots and it would create alienated citizens.

The next speech theory that resonates with me is individual self fulfillment, by C. Edwin Baker. “Human Liberty and Freedom of Speech"

  Free speech enables individuals to express themselves and thereby create their own identity — and, in the process perhaps, find kindred spirits. Freedom of speech thus becomes an aspect of human dignity, human agency and autonomy.” Without the first amendment, we would not have the freedoms to participate in activities that allow us to express ourselves. This falls under the freedom of and from religion clauses. Choosing to participate in whichever religion you desire can allow people to feel in touch with their spiritual selves. Choosing not to be associated with religion can have the exact same effect.

The third and final speech theory is the promote tolerance theory by Lee Bollinger. “It has been argued that freedom of speech, especially through our  practice of extending protection to speech that we find hateful or personally upsetting, teaches us to become more tolerant in other aspects of life — and that a more tolerant society is a better society. Somewhat counter-intuitive, the First Amendment protects hate speech because society learns valuable lessons from, including why it is hateful and worthy of condemnation. It’s how we spread norms about acceptable behavior.” This theory strongly relates to the stable change theory. The first amendment helps prevent alienation and allows for a more tolerant society. Not allowing citizens to vent, express their opinions freely, and speak out against the government will cause those who do to be considered outcasts. People would not feel that they are free to speak their minds and it would cause riots and could cause people to try to overthrow the government.

These Speech theories help us to establish speech ethics and hold the government, and others accountable for their speech. Having the right to free speech is a blessing that people take for granted everyday. These theories help make understanding of why these rights are so important to us as US citizens.