So many users of social media platforms are finding themselves without a job because they’re sharing before they think. In the US, the 1st amendment ensures you can speak your mind freely – WITHIN LIMITS (like incitement to violence, threats, or certain harmful speech). So you can’t blab that you want others killed, even if you don’t mean it.
In addition, many employers have a code of conduct and a social media policy that supports their work culture and company. Most jobs in the US are “at will” employment — employers can fire employees for almost any reason, as long as it’s not illegal (like discrimination or retaliation against protected rights). Private employers can enforce codes of ethics and fire employees if their speech conflicts with company values or policies.
I’m practicing retirement, but others aren’t there yet.
Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
So, the bottom line: you have the right to free speech from government punishment, but private employers can enforce codes of ethics and fire employees if their speech conflicts with company values or policies.
Some of the people breaking the law via social media and/or going against their company’s policies are smart people. But many are passing right by their very own best brain cells to garner likes and attention on social media. Good grief! Then they cry and say they can’t understand. Seriously?
Does everyone want to be a social media influencer besides me?
I refrain from posting ANYTHING political on social media. Matter of fact, I rarely post on FB and never on X or Instagram. I’m content playing online games (currently Path of Exile 2), being a dog mom, and enjoying my life here at the barndo. 🙂
Now you know: Helldivers 2 (squad-based shooter game) was the current favorite game of Charlie Kirk’s assassin, Tyler Robinson. Some of the bullet casing inscriptions corresponded to control-arrows used to drop a bomb in that game.