The assignment is 1800-2200 words. I have a main idea for the paper and have posted it below. I have added a few sources and attached the document. It also has my ideas for the paper and links to Facebook posts that include comments or content related to the topic. I have also attached a sample of my writing titled “Short Paper 2”. I have also included some photos of notes from another class I can add citations for after receiving the paper.
Social Media has bred an American society full of people who believe they are entitled to a constitutional right anytime anywhere. When they are in fact not. The first amendment states, “Congres…” not “I have the right to speak however and wherever I want, practice any religion I want anyway I want (etc.).” The first amendment was constructed to protect Americans from the government making a law that will restrict the public from speaking out against the government (Zenger Trial of 1734 and British Licensing Act brought about 1st amendment bc of critique to govt.). With the rise of social media and the ease of making your voice and opinion known to the world, there has been a rise in the misconception of free speech among Americans.
I believe in people understanding their first amendment right to freedom of speech. It is not absolute, and it only protects your speech from laws the government could make to restrict your speech. Social Media and private entities do not have to follow the first amendment and, therefore, cannot impede your “right to free speech.” The average American feels entitled to free speech anywhere and everywhere, yet does not understand they cannot exercise that right towards social media platforms.
I feel this is important because if Americans do not learn what they should be protecting their free speech from (the government) and instead focus on battling private entities, they will lose that right without even knowing it.