Buckley's Essay 'Why Don T We Complain?'

In his essay, “Why Don’t We Complain?” William F. Buckley, Jr. discusses the passivity of the American people. Although he does not directly mention it, the concept of the First Amendment right is implied. Freedom of speech can be defined as an individual’s right to voice opinions without fear of government constraint. Elements of this right include consequences freedom of expression, and responsibility.

Freedom of speech is a right Americans hold near and dear, yet many have misinterpreted the shield-like security that comes with the First Amendment. To speak means that one is willing to bear the legal burdens of statements and allegations. Numerous Americans assume anything they say falls under protected speech. Speech is unprotected

if it falls under a category deemed unprotected by the Supreme Court. These include, but are not limited to obscenity, defamation, perjury, blackmail. “Which Types of Speech Are Not Protected by the First Amendment?” Newseum Institute, www.newseuminstitute.org/about/faq/which-types-of-speech-are-not-protected-by-the-first-amendment/. In order for an individual to convey opinions and ideas in a way that guarantees the protection of free speech, responsibility is key.
Freedom of expression is part of the First Amendment in the sense that opinions can also be conveyed through visual symbols. Flags, hand gestures, and graffiti are some of many ways individuals or groups express opinions. These may be symbols of racism (the swastika) or symbols of hope and faith (a Christian cross). The freedom of expression must also be used responsibly and does not guarantee immunity from repercussion.

Rights and responsibility come hand in hand, and as with all rights, individuals must be open to them all the while being critical. During this age of social media craze, words and expressions should be used sensibly both online and in the “real world.” The responsibility for this right also includes refraining from actions that would harm others (e.g., “[S]hout[ing] ‘fire’ in a crowded theater.”). Schneck v. United States, 249 U.S. 47 (1919).

All these aspects combined further secure American rights to freedom of speech, a right to voice opinions without fear of government constraint. The responsibility of thinking before speaking is one learned in childhood and helps in preventing the use of unprotected speech. Although protected speech exempts individuals from government-related ramification, no one is free from consequences.