Skip to content

I mention this only because it seems to be a real obstacle…

“I mention this only because it seems to be a real obstacle for contemporary people. We don’t want the freedom of the creature but the freedom of the Creator—not freedom to be good but freedom to determine the good. Maybe this is not so new after all, for it was the first temptation: to be “like…” quote by J Budziszewski
Download Open image
““I mention this only because it seems to be a real obstacle for contemporary people. We don’t want the freedom of the creature but the freedom of the Creator—not freedom to be good but freedom to determine the good. Maybe this is not so new after all, for it was the first temptation: to be “like God, knowing good and evil”.””

J Budziszewski

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

People often seek autonomy defined by external authority rather than personal moral agency, limiting true freedom.

In simple terms: Freedom defined by others limits real liberty.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate personal moral decision‑making.

Themes

freedom morality authority

Mood

thoughtful challenging

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • religious practice
  • personal ethics
  • education

Key Concepts

ethical autonomy theodicy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does freedom mean to you beyond external dictates?
  • How can you practice moral independence?
A Different Perspective

May ignore the value of individual conscience.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by J Budziszewski

Explore all 9 J Budziszewski quotes

More Freedom quotes

Browse all 30,110 Freedom quotes