Blog Post 3: Eight Values of Free Expression
Value #4, Individual Self-Fulfillment, also known as Self-Actualization, is what I believe to be one of the most important values of free expression. Individual self-fulfillment "enables individuals to express themselves," which is especially important in my life. Making art and other creative projects is what I spend most of my time doing, and if not that, I am playing games-a medium of expression.
Often, I create artwork to express an idea or concept that is either my own or an adaptation of another's work. Journalist and life coach Jade Nyx highlights a difference between happiness and fulfilment, describing happiness as temporary and fulfilment as more permanent. After watching a film at the movies, I do feel happiness while viewing. However, expressing my thoughts about the film itself or listening to others talk about theirs brings fulfilment. I enjoy analyzing different forms of media and expressing these thoughts, whether criticism or praise, because it creates more discussion around art.
This is not to say there are no downsides to self-fulfillment and expression. Social media, a concept created to give individuals a platform for self-expression, has "increased depression and anxiety symptoms" in young people. Self-expression can have positive and negative side effects, such as forming a sense of community or comparing yourself to others.
Value #6, Promote Tolerance, is also something I believe to be of high importance. Study.com defines tolerance as “ a fair and objective attitude towards those whose lifestyle differs from yours.” Equality and fairness are what I consider to be one of the most important parts of expression. However, I believe many attitudes towards minority individuals in society are still incredibly harmful, from observation. As good as I believe this value to be, I do not see it practiced enough, with racism, homophobia, and other hateful practices still common. I do not believe "having rights" is enough-general attitudes should also be subject to change. Tolerance is seen in many other forms, such as religion or the political sphere, but I think it is a huge issue when disdain is shown for a group of people.
