Skip to content

Desire Quote by Thomas Sowell

“However widespread the desire to be free, that is wholly different from a desire to live in a society where others are free.” quote by Thomas Sowell
Download Open image
“However widespread the desire to be free, that is wholly different from a desire to live in a society where others are free.”

Thomas Sowell

About This Quote

Source Book: Basic Economics, Thomas Sowell, 2000

Freedom for oneself differs from wanting a society where everyone is free.

In simple terms: Freedom for self vs. collective freedom.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal liberty and societal liberty are distinct.

Themes

freedom individualism society rights

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • human rights activism
  • community building
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

liberalism political philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do personal freedoms affect others?
  • Can a society be truly free for all?
A Different Perspective

May overlook interdependence of freedoms.

3.8 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Thomas Sowell

Explore all 823 Thomas Sowell quotes

More Desire quotes

Browse all 15,159 Desire quotes