The term ‘mindfulness’ is commonly used in modern Western societies, but has its origins in Buddhism. Professional communicators can only work effectively if they have a deep understanding of the level of free expression tolerated in the societies in which the work. The free expression of certain facts and views has always been a dangerous practice, with countless people put to death throughout history for expressing religious or political views. Countries with high levels of censorship maintain tight controls over expression, and take action against online writers who question their authority. The ideal that all human communication in a democratic society should be unshackled by laws or censorship—subject to the impact on other human rights. The words included in the US Bill of Rights that prohibit Congress enacting laws abridging free speech or a free press. Sometimes used as a synonym for ‘free expression’.