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THE NATURE OF HUMAN FREEDOM


By simple definition, freedom is state of being free from restraints. This condition can be experienced by every living thing but most especially humans. Although people have been seeking freedom for millennia, it has not been freedom for all. However, because of the complexity of human rationality and mobility, human freedom takes a deeper meaning and perception depending on human condition and circumstances. Freedom is the ability of an individual to move freely, to act, to decided, to believe what he or she wants, and to freely shape his or her existence without limitations.

According to Erich Fromm in his philosophical scholars, he posits that freedom as a concept in relation to human lifestyle has two fold meaning. They are: freedom from traditional authorities and freedom to actualize one’s destiny by shaping it across time a shape. In his conceptualization, the traditional authority functions to deny an individual’s liberty, personal sovereignty and ability to champion the course of his or her own life. It entails liberating oneself from the traditional authorities such as government and political rule that is repressive and suppressive.

Also, looking at the concept of culture, there has been no absolute freedom because of limitations and boundaries created for humans not to fully exercise their freedom of being. Moreover, these boundaries leave the individual into facing the consequences of each action, decision or belief being made. The fact is that we are governed by institutions and that there are strata in the society limits individuals exercise of freedom.

For example, it is cultural that some parents chose the life path of their children. They direct them into what they want these children to become in the future thus hindering the development of individuality and exercising their own talents and gifts in ways they see them fit their future. Laws as part of culture also limits the exercise of freedom. Whether it’s logical for you to drive without a driving license, the lawful is to have a driver’s license or suffer the consequences of being fined.

In conclusion, the exercise of human freedom is not solely of the individual. Most of the time, the opposite of freedom is demonstrated in the of level culture, and the inability to access service provided by the society or government. Considering that limitations and restraints are already existing in any given form, be it cultural, social, or governmental, the best way is to make freedom valuable and co-existent with the former. Following cultural norms could actually make and individual fully aware of his or her freedom of choice. It is a choice between social suffering and the freedom to be his or herself amid restrictions. Following the laws is the best form of the exercise of freedom than being penalized as a consequence of disobeying. Freedom is being able to choose what is right at the right time and the right place.

Obeta Ikechukwu.

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