Freedom/Liberty

• What does freedom/liberty mean?

  Individuals should be left alone to think, speak and make decisions based on their interests and judgement. Individuals should have the autonomy to live as they choose without undue interference from the state or other societal groups.
• How does liberals' view of freedom link to individualism?

  They argue for freedom not just to protect people from coercion or constraint, but to create an environment where people can actively pursue their life goals
• Importantly, however, freedom must be 'under the law'. This ensures that while individuals should be free to pursue their own interests, this freedom is balanced by legal frameworks and societal norms that ensure their actions do not harm others and that rights of all individuals are protected
• The rule of law is crucial as it provides the necessary boundaries within which individual freedom can flourish
• The rule of law underlines the importance of a fair and impartial legal system that protects individual rights while maintaining social order