3
reasons why FOE is essential to a free society
1. It's the foundation of
self-fulfillment. The right to express one's thoughts and to communicate freely
with others affirms the dignity and worth of each and every member of society,
and allows each individual to realize his or her full human potential. Thus,
freedom of expression is an end in itself -- and as such, deserves society's
greatest protection.
2. It's vital to the attainment and
advancement of knowledge, and the search for the truth. The eminent
19th-century writer and civil libertarian, John Stuart Mill, contended that
enlightened judgment is possible only if one considers all facts and ideas,
from whatever source, and tests one's own conclusions against opposing views.
Therefore, all points of view -- even those that are "bad" or
socially harmful -- should be represented in society's "marketplace of
ideas."
3. It's necessary to our system of
self-government and gives the American people a "checking function"
against government excess and corruption. If the American people are to be the
masters of their fate and of their elected government, they must be
well-informed and have access to all information, ideas and points of view.
Mass ignorance is a breeding ground for oppression and tyranny.
Source:
American Civil Liberties Union n.d., Freedom of Expression, viewed 13 July 2015, <https://www.aclu.org/freedom-expression-0#5>
No comments:
Post a Comment