Understanding Human Freedom: Will, Choice, and Responsibility

The Essence of Freedom and Human Will

Freedom is the condition most precious to humankind, a feature that sets it apart from other beings in nature. In the words of E. Rabier, "...men believe in their freedom and were attributed, rightly or wrongly, the power to choose among several resolutions..." This experience we all share is closely linked to the exercise of our will. It is through the voluntary act that humans truly exercise and practice freedom. Freedom is thus a positive force, a new and creative way to engage with the world in which we actively participate. It is humankind's unique privilege to achieve a wonderful synthesis, allowing us to be placed in the dynamic harmony of governing laws.

Freedom in Society: Limitations and Shared Responsibility

Humans are persons, and as persons, they are morally perfect if their choices are made as such. In this world, where our actions are conditioned and limited, both naturally and artificially, speaking of total freedom would be a utopia. Factors that sometimes override or limit our freedom include:

• Society
• Culture
• Education
• Law
• Internal factors (e.g., fear)

However, in another sense, these constraints help to achieve equal freedom for all, ensuring no advantages for anyone.

Responsible freedom should be the engine of our way of doing things, thus helping with the construction of the liberty of others, and leading us always and in all cases to the choice of the good, the sole foundation of our existence.

The Practicality of Freedom: A Philosophical Perspective

It is understandable that many philosophers are engaged in defending or attacking our freedom, but this theoretical struggle matters little in reality. We are free because our consciences and our actions prove it. But as Galeano said, "You cannot preach freedom unless you start by practicing it." So, to conclude with Savater's advice:

When anyone endeavors to deny that humans are free, apply the test of the Roman philosopher. In antiquity, a Roman philosopher was arguing with a friend who denied human liberty and asserted that all humans have no choice but to do what they do. The philosopher took his cane and began to whack him with full force. "For, and this well, stop hitting me!" said the other. And the philosopher, not ceasing his assault, continued arguing: "Do not tell me that I am not free and that what I do, I have no choice but to do? Why then do you waste saliva asking me to stop? I'm automatic." Until the friend understood that the philosopher was free to stop beating, the philosopher did not cease his assault.

As Savater clarifies, this is a good test, but it should only be used as a last resort and always with friends who do not know martial arts, shouldn't it?