Eight Values of Free Expression

Out of the Eight Values of Free Expression, the one I found most interesting was Individual Self-Fulfillment and how it connects to today's world. Individual Self-Fulfillment means that “free speech allows people to express themselves, form their own identity, and maybe even find others like them.” I think this idea really fits how teenagers and young adults, like me, use social media especially TikTok. Over the past five years, TikTok has become one of the most popular apps. What started as a place for lip-syncing and dancing has turned into a space where people openly share their achievements, struggles, and personal thoughts. 

TikTok Thumbnail

TikTok lets people express themselves in ways beyond just talking. Some influencers get attention just because of their unique style or look. They get thousands of likes, not only for their appearance but because people admire their confidence in being themselves. When others see someone with the same style or interests, they feel seen and understood. Which in this generation is what everyone wants, to feel seen and understood. This makes it easier for people who might struggle to express themselves in real life to do so online. That’s why I think Individual Self-Fulfillment is especially important for this generation, and one of the most relevant of the Eight Values of Free Expression. Social media in general gives young people so many ways to express themselves, and while TikTok is the most popular, apps like Instagram and Snapchat are also important.

However, I think TikTok can become too personal or “overly expressive.” While I agree that free speech is important, I’ve noticed that some influencers take things too far by sharing very personal content. It doesn’t bother me, but I think younger users might be exposed to stuff they shouldn’t see. Talking about things like sexual situations or relationship problems should stay private. Not everything needs to be shared with the whole internet which relates to the idea of privacy. 

I think Individual Self-Fulfillment really connects with TikTok and social media in general. It’s a space where free speech allows people to share different opinions and personal stories. Even though some content can be too personal, TikTok still helps people learn new things and see life from different perspectives. 

Along with Individual Self-Fulfillment, other values I see in todays world are promoting tolerance, and protecting dissent. These values are all connected by the idea of freedom of speech. These values tie together because they all support people’s right to speak their minds. Individual self-fulfillment is about people expressing themselves and being true to their beliefs, which can lead to actions like protests or posts on social media. Promoting tolerance is about respecting and understanding different viewpoints, even if they disagree with your own. Finally, protecting dissent ensures that those differing opinions are heard without fear or punishment.

A clear example of this was after the Roe v. Wade ruling. Many people shared their anger and frustration on Instagram and TikTok. This kind of expression encouraged others to speak up as well, creating a ripple effect. It lead to protests which is a good thing because it shows people standing up for their rights. For instance, CNN reported large protests outside the White House in response to the ruling.

Roe v. Wade Protesters

A similar scenario happened with the recent TikTok ban. Many people protested and created lots of expression. Banning the app would remove one of the major platforms where people express their opinions, organize protests, and spread information about social issues. During movements like the Roe v. Wade, platforms like TikTok are essential for building momentum and creating visibility, especially when traditional media might not cover these issues in the same way. Banning TikTok could limit a tool that plays a big role in promoting both individual self-fulfillment and protecting dissent. So the TikTok ban might be seen as not just a way to control personal data or political influence, but also a way to limit how people use the platform to protest or challenge the status quo. This shows how social media can help spread ideas, get people involved, and bring attention to important issues. Finally, showing how these values work together to support free expression and social change.