why total freedom of speech is important

Freedom of speech is a fundamental principle that supports the freedom of an individual or a community to express their opinions and ideas without fear of retaliation, censorship, or legal sanction. The right to freedom of expression has been recognized as a human right in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international human rights law by the United Nations. Many countries have constitutional law that protects free speech.

The importance of free speech lies in the following reasons:

Self-Governance and a Check Against Governmental Abuse: Freedom of speech is essential for individuals to freely engage in debate so that they can make informed choices about self-government. Free speech serves as a check against abuse by government officials, as it allows for criticism and discussion of government actions.
Liberty and Self-Fulfillment: Freedom of speech is key to individual fulfillment. It enables individuals to express their individuality and autonomy, contribute to the development of ideas, and promote self-expression, which are integral parts of personal liberty.
The Search for Truth and the 'Marketplace of Ideas': Freedom of speech ensures a search for truth by fostering a marketplace of ideas where diverse opinions can be exchanged, debated, and challenged. This promotes the growth of knowledge and the advancement of society.
Informational Theory: The informational theory posits that there is great value in learning and understanding what people believe, even if their beliefs are not objectively true. Open dialogue fostered by free speech contributes to this understanding.
Safety Valve Theory: Freedom of speech provides a safety valve by allowing individuals to express their opinions and frustrations instead of resorting to violent means.
In conclusion, freedom of speech plays a vital role in promoting self-governance, individual liberty, the pursuit of truth, learning, and maintaining social harmony. It is a cornerstone of any democratic society and is essential to protecting the human rights of individuals. By nurturing an environment that encourages free expression, we foster a more informed, open, and empowered citizenry.