Liberty

Liberty means the ability to do as one pleases and to be free from authoritarian systems. I have the view that it is imperative to remind individuals that true freedom cannot exist unless the government is constrained. There is a direct cause and effect relationship at play, which is as predictable and tidy as any law of physics: as the government grows in size and power, individual liberty inevitably diminishes. I believe that we have passed through a phase where numerous people have been led to believe that it is the responsibility of the government to deal with any problems they encounter. Phrases like "If I have a problem, I will receive a grant," or "If I am homeless, the government must provide me with housing," are examples of such thinking. This way of thinking puts the burden of their difficulties on society as a whole. However, it is important to understand that there is no such thing as society. Rather, society is made up of individual men, women, and families. Additionally, governments cannot act independently, but only through the people, who should prioritise self-sufficiency. It is our responsibility to take care of ourselves first, and then extend that responsibility to our neighbours. Unfortunately, too many people are focused solely on their entitlements without considering their obligations. Entitlement does not exist unless an obligation has first been fulfilled.