M2 Discussion: Constitution and Rights (Topic I: Constitution, Civil Liberties, and Civil Rights)

A constitution is a written document outlining the structure of a political system (Roskin et

al., 2016). Since its start in 1787, the U.S. Constitution has experienced many changes through

amendments. The initial document was designed to be flexible, allowing modifications to adjust

to societal evolution. Significant modifications have been made through the 27 amendments,

which have managed topics such as voting rights, civil liberties, and governmental authorities

and powers. The Constitution of the United States is very short and leaves much unsaid. Its seven

articles mostly describe the capabilities of each branch of government; the following twenty-

seven modifications broadly describe civil rights while leaving much open for arrangement. I

think the short U.S. Constitution can still function effectively in the complex modern age. Its

conciseness and flexibility permit it to adjust and adapt to modifying societal norms and

technological advancements (Roskin et al., 2016)

Civil liberties refer to the fundamental freedoms secured by the Bill of Rights in the

Constitution, including freedom of speech, religion, and the press. They protect people from

excessive government interference. However, civil rights are the freedoms or rights of people to

receive equal treatment and be free from unfair treatment or bias in many settings, such as

education, employment, housing, and more (Coyne et al., 2023).

Free speech is a civil liberty given by the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. It lets

people express their ideas and opinions without government interference or censorship. For

example, citizens who think the government is bad or wrong may say so publicly (Roskin et al.,

2016). However, Americans believe in the right to free expression, but most agree that there are

limits. This right is not absolute and does not defend speech that provokes violence or creates an

actual threat.
 Free speech or freedom of expression is a human right under Article 19 of the Universal

Declaration of Human Rights. It is necessary for exercising other human rights, such as the right

to vote, and is fundamental to an operating democracy. It allows people to express their thoughts,

seek and receive information, and hold those in power accountable (Cornell Law School, 2022).

References

Cornell Law School. (2022). First Amendment. Legal Information Institute.

https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/first_amendment#:~:text=Freedom%20of%20speech
%20may%20be,without%20government%20interference%20or%20regulation.

Coyne, M., Wilson, A., & Segal, B. (2023). Civil Liberties vs. civil rights: What is the
difference? | explore ... https://law.usnews.com/law-firms/advice/articles/civil-liberties-vs-
civil-rights-what-is-the-difference

Roskin, M. G., Cord, R. L., Medeiros, J. A., & Jones, W. S. (2016). Political Science (14th ed.).
Pearson Education (US). https://unitek.vitalsource.com/books/9780134404905