Debate brings out ideas and knowledge that previously might not have been known, and puts them in a forum where people can think about them and decide which is best. Without this openness of information, we are restricted to ideas which haven't been tested and therefore might be flawed. I for one, can't see any reason why acting off of bad or incomplete information would be a good thing for our country.
Dissent goes hand in hand with debate. When the government makes a mistake or acts upon bad information, it is our responsibility to force accountability, remove any lies or flaws, and petition for redress for injustices.
If we don't exercise out freedoms for ourselves by doing our part to change the country (in all regards, not just our selective or favorite ones) for the better, we cannot call ourselves worthy of this freedom, nor can we truly call ourselves Patriots.
