SJD1501
Assignment 7 Semester 2 2025
Unique #
Due Date: 10 November 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
1.1. Impact of Social Media on the Constitutional Right to Privacy
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X have blurred the line
between public and private life. While the Constitution protects everyone’s right to
privacy, sharing personal information online makes it easier for others to access,
misuse or expose it. People often post photos, opinions, and location updates, which
can be seen by strangers or even go viral. In some cases, employers, media, or
even the state may monitor online activity, creating concerns about surveillance. The
right to privacy is challenged when people share others’ personal details without
permission. While users voluntarily give up some privacy, the law must still protect
them from unreasonable interference. Courts must now balance digital expression
with privacy, adapting wisely to protect rights in the online age.
1.2. Impact of Social Media on the Constitutional Right to Freedom of
Expression
The Constitution gives everyone the right to express themselves, and social media
has made this easier than ever. People use platforms to share opinions, join
debates, and speak out against injustice. Social media has helped amplify voices
that were once ignored, especially in politics and activism. However, freedom of
expression is not unlimited. Hate speech, incitement to violence, and false
information are problems that can harm others. Social media has also created
―cancel culture,‖ where people are punished or bullied for their views. The challenge
is finding the balance between protecting free speech and preventing harm. South
African courts must adapt to these realities by protecting honest expression while
limiting speech that violates others’ dignity or rights in line with the Constitution.
1.3. Impact of Social Media on Racism
Social media has amplified discussions on racism, providing both a platform for
awareness and a tool for perpetuating racial discrimination. On one hand,
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 7 Semester 2 2025
Unique #
Due Date: 10 November 2025
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
1.1. Impact of Social Media on the Constitutional Right to Privacy
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X have blurred the line
between public and private life. While the Constitution protects everyone’s right to
privacy, sharing personal information online makes it easier for others to access,
misuse or expose it. People often post photos, opinions, and location updates, which
can be seen by strangers or even go viral. In some cases, employers, media, or
even the state may monitor online activity, creating concerns about surveillance. The
right to privacy is challenged when people share others’ personal details without
permission. While users voluntarily give up some privacy, the law must still protect
them from unreasonable interference. Courts must now balance digital expression
with privacy, adapting wisely to protect rights in the online age.
1.2. Impact of Social Media on the Constitutional Right to Freedom of
Expression
The Constitution gives everyone the right to express themselves, and social media
has made this easier than ever. People use platforms to share opinions, join
debates, and speak out against injustice. Social media has helped amplify voices
that were once ignored, especially in politics and activism. However, freedom of
expression is not unlimited. Hate speech, incitement to violence, and false
information are problems that can harm others. Social media has also created
―cancel culture,‖ where people are punished or bullied for their views. The challenge
is finding the balance between protecting free speech and preventing harm. South
African courts must adapt to these realities by protecting honest expression while
limiting speech that violates others’ dignity or rights in line with the Constitution.
1.3. Impact of Social Media on Racism
Social media has amplified discussions on racism, providing both a platform for
awareness and a tool for perpetuating racial discrimination. On one hand,
Varsity Cube 2025 +27 81 278 3372
