INTRODUCTION Why Should We Study Public Speaking? God Calls ... to Leadership e Exodus 3:7-12 Democracy Studying public communication can help you exercise your constitutional guaranteed freedom of speech. Few nations have a bill of rights that invites their citizens to convey opinions and ideas, yet freedom of speech is essential to a democratic form of government. Being a practicing citizen in a democratic society therefore depends upon knowing about and even through the mass media. Life Skills Studying public speaking can teach you important life skills. It involves learning skills that every person will use at some point in his or her life, such as critical thinking, problem solving, decision-making, conflict resolution, team building, and media literacy. In addition, your oral and written work depends on your ability. Most likely, you will engage in group projects where skills such as team building, conflict resolution, and presenting will be keys to success. Work and Career Studying public speaking can help you succeed professionally. A job posting in any newspaper will give you an immediate understanding of the importance of improving your knowledge and practice of communication.