Who Says Freedom Is Doing Things Because They Should Be Done

Freedom and Its Misunderstandings

It's a common misunderstanding that freedom equates to doing things simply because you feel like it. In reality, freedom is more nuanced and closely intertwined with societal requirements and duties. The concept that people can be truly free is often viewed as absurd, as our very existence is inherently constrained by basic necessities such as food, water, and shelter.

The Confinements of Life

David Hackett Fischer proposed that liberty and freedom are distinct concepts. Liberty refers to the freedom from external impositions, whereas freedom implies the ability to be a part of a collective or to contribute to a community. Moreover, he suggested that these two must be balanced. This perspective adds depth to our understanding of freedom, which cannot be absolute without such balance.

Law as a Form of Freedom

The idea that law itself is freedom might initially sound counterintuitive, but it holds a profound truth. Imagine a society without any form of law or regulation. In such a scenario, the stronger members of the community would invariably dominate and oppress the weaker ones without any checks and balances. On the other hand, a society with a well-defined legal system ensures that every individual, regardless of their strength, has certain fundamental rights and protections.

The Role of Law in Society

In a truly free society, the law serves as the foundation that protects the rights of every individual, ensuring that everyone, including the highest office holders, is accountable. The rule of law creates a level playing field, where no one is above the law, even the president or the prime minister. Without such a framework, freedom becomes a privilege for the few and not a universal right.

Understanding Law and Freedom

It is essential to recognize that the purpose of law is not to restrict freedom, but rather to protect it. Laws define social boundaries and ensure that the actions of individuals and institutions are conducted in a manner that respects the rights of others. A society without these legal constraints would degenerate into a chaotic anarchy where the strongest exploit the weakest.

Conclusion

In summary, freedom is not about doing whatever you want but about having the ability to live according to your aspirations while also fulfilling your duties and responsibilities. The law is a vital component in this process, serving not as a means to restrict freedom, but as a safeguard for it. By balancing liberty and duty, we can achieve a more just and equitable society where everyone's rights are protected.