Liberty, as it is conceived by current opinion, has nothing inherent about it; it is a sort of gift or trust bestowed on the individual by the state pending good behavior.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The author argues that liberty is not an inherent right but a gift from the state given conditionally.
- In plain terms
- Freedom is given by the government and can be taken away.
- What can you take from it?
- Freedom depends on state approval.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is freedom a right or a gift?
- Who grants your freedom?
Another view
Liberty is often viewed as inherent in democratic theory.
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