Freedom of Expression, the Role of the State and Intersubjectivity: A philosophical discussion on freedom of expression and the public sphere

Abstract

The expansion of social networks among individuals has sparked discussions about freedom of expression and its limitations. Due to the development of technology, individuals have been able to share their experiences, knowledge, and thoughts without particular and/or restrictive difficulties. The basis of conversation initiates from comprehension. The public sphere is the product of a great plan through the restoration of reason to overcome the problems of a society that centered only on the pre-modernity. The formation of a public sphere presupposes overcoming the paradoxical situation of rationalization. If we are to leave behind comprehensive dogmatic that we can not compromise on and find topics on which we can achieve ‘overlapping consensus’, we must adhere to minimal rules of communication. Autonomy in a community can be secured by guaranteeing freedom of expression, and the state's restrictions on this should remain in an auxiliary role for the expansion of public reason. What something is valuable doesn't always mean we should enforce it to another. Beyond the belief that freedom of expression is an extension of autonomy through rational resolution of conflicts, we must have the duty to respect others under the value of solidarity.