Understanding Freedom
The notion of freedom is typically one of the most misunderstood and misinterpreted, especially between believers and atheists.
Understanding Freedom
- Freedom of Thinking: The right to hold and express personal thoughts and beliefs without interference or coercion from others or the government. This concept aligns with the fundamental human right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, as outlined in various international human rights documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 18) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 18). These documents emphasize this right.
- Freedom of Choice: The idea of individuals having the freedom to choose their lifestyle, as long as it does not harm others, reflects principles of individual autonomy and self-determination. This concept is rooted in ethical principles such as the harm principle, which states that individuals should be free to act as they choose unless their actions cause harm to others. Philosophers like John Stuart Mill have explored these ideas in depth, particularly in his work “On Liberty.”
- Freedom of Expression: The freedom to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, through any media. This principle corresponds with the right to freedom of expression enshrined in international human rights instruments such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (Article 19) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (Article 19). It encompasses
It’s important to note that while these freedoms are fundamental rights, they are not absolute and may be subject to limitations in certain circumstances, such as when necessary to protect public order, health, or the rights and freedoms of others.
“Freedom means responsibility.”
George Bernard Shaw
“Freedom makes a huge requirement of every human being. With freedom comes responsibility.”
Eleanor Roosevelt
“Freedom of will is the ability to do gladly that which I must do.”
Carl Jung
“The price of freedom is responsibility, but it is a bargain, because freedom is priceless.”
Hugh Downs
These familiar sayings converge in the idea that freedom is a desirable psychological good. One that is worth paying a considerable price for.
They also converge in the idea that this price often involves acting responsibly vis-à-vis others.
In Jung’s words, freedom comes with inescapable social obligations, paradoxically seeming to limit freedom.
Despite the paradox, the quotes also converge in the idea that there is a positive and perhaps self-reinforcing association
between freedom and responsibility.
When there is more freedom there is also more responsibility, and where there is less freedom, there is less responsibility.