In the present era, social media is not just a means of communication with friends, it has become a powerful platform for our thoughts, opinions, feelings, protests and presence. Here, some of us are students, some are employees, some are artists or entrepreneurs. But the question is, can expressing personal opinions on this platform be a reasonable basis enough to influence our professional lives?
I personally believe that expressing opinions is a fundamental human right. But if that opinion does not violate the rights of others, does not hurt any race, religion, gender, class, and only expresses one's own thoughts, then it should not be a reason for losing a job. A person's personal opinion cannot be the only measure of his professionalism, unless it directly conflicts with the policies of the organization.
Suppose, someone expressed his position on politics or social issues through social media, which may not match the opinion of the owners of an organization. But if that opinion is peaceful and based on reason, should he be fired from his job just because of his differences? Is this a punishment for expressing opinions?
We live in a strange duality. On the one hand, we want a society of free opinions, and on the other hand, we professionally corner a person because of their opinions. Even many students these days face the wrath of school or college authorities for expressing their opinions on Facebook or Twitter. Doesn't this mean that we are under a kind of undeclared control?
However, every institution also has some values and principles. But if those principles have an excessive impact on someone's personal life or opinions, then it will be considered a kind of pressure. Freedom of expression is meaningful only when it learns to tolerate dissent.
On social media, someone can talk about their religious beliefs, environmental awareness, political ideology, or feelings towards society. If this does not affect their performance, why should institutions or educational institutions punish them? Rather, these different ways of thinking and exchange of opinions make an institution more humane and multidimensional.
Only when we learn to give space to dissent will a democratic and free society be developed. By taking away freedom of expression, we not only suppress an individual, but also suppress the courage of society to think.
Finally, if expression of opinion is within the bounds of humanity and peace, it should not be suppressed, but respected. Institutions should evaluate employees based on their professionalism, not their personal opinions. And we should all learn to understand, not fear, dissent. Only then will a tolerant and thoughtful society be built.