500 - 750 Word Minimum; typed paper (Politics Subject)

The First Amendment to the United States Constitution reads as follows:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

1. Discuss how our First Amendment rights are essential to our ability to self-govern, within the context of the "social contract." Give at least one example.

2. Discuss how our First Amendment rights protect us against the "socially constructed" beliefs and values of those in power. Give at least one example.