1). Consider the social constructionist
perspective. How do we "build worlds" through
communication? Think of some ideas we talk about in our culture that may
not exist in other cultures. How do these concepts contribute to our
happiness or success (or the lack of these) in our culture?
Given an American cultural context considering the social
constructionist perspective, our political democratic society has been formed
in large part from unilateral views based on First Amendment rights within our Constitution. They are: freedom of speech, freedom of
religion, freedom of the press, freedom to peaceably assemble, and freedom to
petition the government for redress. Many Americans, and other democratic societies
worldwide, view this perspective (and its subsequent rights) in a prideful, and
sometimes seen, arrogant ethnocentric stance; that is to say, culturally
superior to other societies void of democracy.
Our citizens believe these democratic concepts, and our ever evolving vociferous communication of these concepts, contribute to
our overall happiness and success, primarily focusing on our right (and ability) to choose, to
disagree, and still reside within a civil society. Democracy, as we know far too well, is not
present in all societies within the world we live in today. And many, even longtime patriotic Americans,
from all sides political parties are becoming, more and more, assertive to
voice their concerns that our First Amendment rights are eroding in rapid
fashion. It is our freedoms, which is
an inherent tool within our society utilized to “create [our American] collective representation of reality”(24).
I enjoyed reading your perspective on American First Amendment Rights. Your post was very eloquent, poignant and contained a very well-reasoned message. While we as citizens of this great nation do sometimes take pride in our rights, and possibly look down upon others whom we perceive as being inferior, governmentally speaking, we still allow our rights to be eroded from within. Our society could have reached the point where no outside force could destroy this great nation, but it could fall due to corruption from within. Hopefully we can all become better speakers and convey our thoughts, ideas, and voices to stem this erosion.
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