Political Communication as “Free Speech”

What is free speech? What is it not? How do we protect it? Define it? To understand free speech, we need to examine two ideas that create the foundation for our first amendment: parrhesia and isegoria. In "The Two Clashing Meanings of Free Speech," Bejan describes these concepts as follows:

Isegoria is the equal right of citizens to participate in public debate in the democratic assembly.
Parrhesia is the license to say what one pleases, how one pleases, and to whom

From its Greek origins to its manifestations in Europe and The New World, isegoria can be explained as every man having equal access to free speech. We enjoy isegoria in the United States as the right to vote, freedom of assembly, and, in theory, having equal access to the podium.

While the intention of isegoria seemingly remains intact in the United States, all men to not have equal access to freedom of speech, which weakens our democracy. Obstacles of various sizes and complexity stand in the way of the marginalized in America. Fundamentals, such as the right to vote, are disrupted by a system that can be altered to hinder specific groups from actualizing their own role in civic life. From voter ID laws to and the absence of mail-in ballots to the deeply rooted systemic racism that influences the politics of our locales, there are hurdles preventing many from participating in democracy on a very basic level: exercising the right to vote.

On the other side of our first amendment is parrhesia, which is the act of speaking one's mind and, as described by Bejan, invoking a right to offend. We see this primarily in positions of power, and where news meets entertainment in the media. Sensationalism devoid of true debate appeal to parrhesiatic speech, seeking to shock more than facilitate or perpetuate thoughtful conversation.

While the first amendment protects our ability to engage in free speech without lawful consequence (with only limited exception) and serves as a pillar in our democracy, political communication does not occur without consequence or result.

What form of free speech do you most often utilize, isegoria or parrhesia?

Do you feel as though you have equal access to 'the podium'?