Freedom

People are grasping for freedom all around the world. It really seems to be in the air .There are certain things we can all agree on about freedom: it is a precious thing, it needs to be fought for, and it needs to be protected. Beyond that freedom is a subjective concept, since your idea of freedom might not be the same as mine. And freedom does not necessarily mean democracy, though the two concepts are often linked in rhetoric.

These are remarkable times in the world with change occurring at lightning speed. The recent events in Egypt and Tunisia show that everyone everywhere wants some version of freedom. It will be fascinating to see how these struggles play outin a part of the world where participatory politics does not have much of a track record. I hope that whoever comes to power in these countries addresses the real issues, such as unemployment, poverty and injustice, and does not exploit hatred, ignorance and nationalism. Stay tuned.

We have our own version of freedom to fight for in the United States. The recent massacre in Arizona raises the issue of gun control again. There is also some national dialogue on why a twenty-two year old would commit mass murder. The right to bear arms is being balanced with society’s right to be reasonably protected from arbitrary violence.  Freedom means different things to different people.In this connection, Mayor Bloomberg’s gun buying “sting” in Arizona illustrates his freedom to even conduct such an operation, but certain interests in Arizona might consider it self-righteous meddling that accomplishes very little. Freedom again.

Is anyone’s concept of freedom absolutely right?

It seems that freedom, like many things, is a shifting concept that needs to be constantly redefined.

What is your version of freedom?