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About this quote

What does it mean?
Lessig reflects that progress builds on the past, which also resists change; true freedom means overcoming that inertia.
In plain terms
Freedom is breaking the past’s hold on us.
What can you take from it?
Resist outdated constraints to achieve liberty.

Where it applies

  • legal reform
  • cultural innovation

Putting it to work

  • reexamine traditions
  • promote reformist policies

Questions to consider

  • What past elements hinder freedom?
  • When should we preserve tradition?

Another view

Some past structures are beneficial and worth preserving.

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