Author: Alex LaRose
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Written more than two centuries ago, the First Amendment remains a beacon of freedom for activists, journalists and ordinary citizens.
The right to exercise free speech and voice one’s opinion is an inalienable right that must be respected in every instance, however distasteful or off-putting the speech may be. Individuals and society benefit far more from the airing of disparate opinions than from the adoption of a dogmatic party line and the exclusion of all else.
Responding to speech that one deems offensive, inappropriate or antithetical to one’s beliefs is also an inalienable right. However, one’s response must not discount the fact that every individual is entitled to his or her own opinion.
The exchange of ideas, and the discourse that results, is integral to the formation of a more diverse and enlightened society. Recent history provides many examples of societies that have prohibited free speech and savagely done away with those who have the courage to express dissenting opinions. Libya and the Soviet Union are two prime examples of countries that feared diversity in opinion to the extent that they ultimately caused their downfall. Societies like the U.S., which have embraced freedom of speech and thought, have prospered and made great strides with respect to social equality and political diversity. Although the U.S. is far from perfect, without its respect for free speech, the social landscape would look far different.
Whether on a college campus, or at a multi-national corporation, people must have tolerance for ideas that they do not agree with. The ability to listen to different opinions, analyze them and then respond in a coherent, logical fashion is essential for success in every aspect of life.
Freedom of speech must be respected regardless of the viewpoint expressed, otherwise ignorance and intolerance will reign. Rejecting an opinion simply because one does not agree with it precludes the opportunity for personal intellectual growth, as well as the expansion of the discourse on the matter.
Alexander LaRose is a senior economics major. He can be reached at larose@oxy.edu.
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