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Freedom October 23, 2000 I am under the impression that there really cannot be a firm understanding of freedom, despite the infinite supply of opinions on the subject. Stated simply, freedom is nothing more than the ability to choose. When given careful thought, there is more to freedom than just choice. Where does freedom come from? If we are free to make decisions, where do our choices come from? What is the origin of freedom? That very question is the foundation of my concept of freedom. As Baron Paul Henri d'Holback wrote in System of Nature, actions of man are "necessary consequences." Just as defined in physics, all actions have a cause, and if analyzed completely (which is not currently possible), all human actions can be predicted precisely. Because life is essentially a series of reactions, and responses, we only have the freedom to make a decision when the situation is entirely new, thus no precedent being set. This is a moot point, however, because such an instance is so extremely rare that it ought not even be considered. Thus freedom of choice does not exist - or if it does, only in extreme situations. Many believe this brings up a fairly large problem: imposing moral rules and principles, and generally holding someone responsible for his actions. These impositions and punishments are our reactions, and are quite natural and necessary. If the goal of life is ultimately happiness, then in order to be happy we must eliminate that which makes us unhappy. Therefore, by imposing punishment, the precursor for such future events is set, and this natural cause of unhappiness is avoided. Despite any attempt to disbelieve in freedom, the argument is inconsistent in itself, for insofar as the mind can perceive, freedom of choice is very real. We may not make decisions on our own, but the human mind can only operate in and of itself, and so despite my claim that freedom does not exist, the mind cannot be convinced otherwise. So on with the assignment, positive and negative freedom. Freedom can serve only one purpose: satisfaction. When a decision is finalized, it is always the decision that one is most satisfied. This also supports the claim that no decision can be made unselfishly, for even when considering others in making a decision, one is only doing so to be satisfied with his action. Decisions do not always lead to happiness, obviously, for life consists of a full range of emotions. In some cases, freedom of choice may in fact be a horrible thing. There are times in any life in which forced choices are made to create harmful situations. These times are natural, and the discomfort in such moments is apparent, but decisions are made and life goes on. A good life consists of just the right balance of choices, by anyone and everyone surrounding any life (parents, friends, etc.), to keep one satisfied. I believe myself to have lived a good life so far, for I have come to many realizations that help to keep me happy all of the time while also trying to keep those around me happy. Philosophy in general has been a great part of my "good" life, for it has provided reason and definition when needed most. I can honestly say that I feel myself to be in better spirits than most, largely due to my way of thinking (whatever it may be) and any decisions made as a result. What intelligence I possess has provided a firm foundation for good, and hopefully long-lasting life. © III Enterprises & neotope.com |
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