Freedom Quote by John Smith
“Let all me have as much freedom in reason as may be, and true dealing, for it is the greatest comfort you can give them, where the very name of servitude will breed much ill blood, and become odious to God and man.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Philosophical essay, 18th century
Freedom in reasoning is essential; imposing servitude causes suffering and is abhorrent to both divine and human values.
In simple terms: Reason needs freedom; servitude is harmful.
Key Takeaway
Promote rational liberty.
Themes
freedom
reason
morality
justice
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- legal systems
- education
- governance
Key Concepts
autonomy
ethical philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What balances freedom and order?
- How does reason prevent oppression?
A Different Perspective
Absolute freedom can lead to chaos without guidance.
![“But what about the apparent absurdity of the idea of dignity, freedom, and reason, sustained by extreme military discipline, including of the practice of discarding weak children? This “absurdity” is simply the price of freedom—freedom is not free, as they put it in the film [300]. Freedom is not…” quote by Slavoj Žižek](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/5f6/slavoj-i-ek-1738_children_but-what-about-the-apparent-absurdity-of_806718.jpg)
![“The course of human history has always moved in the direction of greater freedom. And there’s a reason for that—because it’s in our nature to push for it,” Ryan told me. “If we were just plastic like [some] people think, this wouldn’t be happening. But somebody stands in front of a tank in China…” quote by Daniel H. Pink](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/714/daniel-h-pink-1532_autonomy_the-course-of-human-history-has-always-m_2942643.jpg)
