What exactly is freedom? | Citadel Builders

So what actually is freedom?

Beneath the word “freedom” is a powerful idea.

While many in the world speak of freedom, it does not exist in any part of the world.

Freedom means you can do what you like, as long as you don’t violate other people’s rights.

Freedom is voluntary. Freedom is choice.

It means you have the right to a free life.

Rights are not given by government decree — you were born with them.

You (and everyone else) are entitled to the following rights:

Right to life
- However, people do not have to help you.
Right to liberty — you have exclusive control over your body, your decisions, and your life
Right to property — if you create, voluntarily receive or buy something, it’s yours.
Right to free speech — you can say whatever you want.
Right to work
Right to privacy

These rights cannot be taken away unless you voluntary give them up.

Freedom is difficult. And it must be consistent.

Rights work both ways — there are two sides to each right.

Restriction from violence — you cannot violate other people’s right to life or liberty — except in self-defence.
- You cannot initiate force
- You cannot murder other people
Restriction from coercion — you cannot force others to do something you want them to do.
Restriction from theft — you cannot take others’ property.
Restriction from fraud — you cannot trick others into giving up property or rights.

Nothing is perfect. But freedom is the best we have in an imperfect world.

Grey areas exist everywhere. For example, if you kill somebody in self-defence, is that okay? It depends.

Make no mistake about it, freedom will not deliver utopia.

Freedom will deliver a better world, where we can provide value, keep what we earn, choose what we want to do, and live freely.

But even in a world of freedom, people will do bad things. We are all capable of evil by our very nature.

Look no further than the history books to see that evil acts were carried out by people just like you and me.

Even if you disagree with them.

Live your best life, and add value to people around you. Be patient, kind, generous, and peaceful.

Everyone who is against the idea of freedom today, could one day soon be on your side.

Putting them off won’t help. Demonstrating the brilliance of freedom, will.

The more you know, the better you’ll be able to share your views.