In a recent article by Benedict Rogers in The Tablet, the author reflects on the state of the world and the series of crises that have occurred in recent years. They discuss their involvement in various global conflicts and challenges, as well as their participation in a conference focused on seeking a better future. The author highlights the importance of knowing and understanding our own story in order to defend freedom and fight for those who are denied it. They also emphasize the need for responsibility and a freedom 'to be' rather than just a freedom 'from'. The author concludes by expressing hope for a better future and the potential impact of the conference they attended.
The article 'Bearing Witness to Fairness and Freedom' by Desmond Hartwell Murray in Adventist Today further explores the importance of fairness and freedom in civil human affairs. The author specifically references the 1964 Civil Rights Act and American Independence Day to discuss the current state of fairness and freedom in America. They question whether practices and realities in the country align with fairness and freedom, highlighting issues such as immunity from the law, denial of women's autonomy, and voter suppression. The author emphasizes that threats to democracy and freedom are threats to fairness and justice, and that in a civil society, everyone should be free and treated fairly. They quote Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Nelson Mandela, and Toni Morrison to underscore the significance of freedom. The article concludes by stating that freedom is a continuous journey of choices, actions, and responsibilities, and invites readers to reflect on the lyrics of Bob Marley's 'Redemption Song'.
The article 'Freedom and Liberty: What do these terms really mean?' by Laura M. Torres Souder in The Guam Daily Post delves into the meaning of freedom and liberty in the context of the United States and Guam. The author reflects on the current state of the world, including the COVID pandemic, economic recovery, wars, and political divisiveness. They highlight the need to examine the true meaning of freedom and liberty, especially as various groups in America struggle to maintain basic freedoms and rights. The article also mentions Guam's status as a colony and the lack of authentic self-determination for the CHamoru people. The author calls for a deeper examination of these ideals and their application to current issues [f3ce2268].
The Age of Enlightenment brought about a new era of freedom and progress, shaped by science, reason, and democracy. But what does freedom mean in the 21st century? How do Enlightenment ideas continue to shape our understanding of freedom today? And what must we do to defend and uphold it?
In the 21st century, freedom is not just about being free from external constraints, but also about the freedom to be oneself and to fulfill one's potential. It is a freedom that is anchored in responsibility, as Benedict Rogers points out. True freedom is not the absence of responsibility, but rather a balance between individual rights and social obligations.
To defend freedom in the 21st century, we must first understand its true meaning and value. It is not just a privilege or a right, but a responsibility. We must recognize that freedom comes with certain duties and obligations towards others and society as a whole. It is not just about what we are free from, but also about what we are free to do and to become.
Furthermore, defending freedom requires active participation and engagement. It is not enough to passively enjoy the benefits of freedom; we must actively work to protect and promote it. This can involve speaking out against injustice, advocating for human rights, and supporting organizations and initiatives that uphold freedom and equality.
In a world that is increasingly interconnected and interdependent, defending freedom also requires a global perspective. We must recognize that the freedom of one person or one nation is intricately linked to the freedom of others. This means standing in solidarity with those who are denied freedom and working towards a more just and equitable world for all.
In conclusion, the meaning of freedom in the 21st century goes beyond the absence of external constraints. It is about the freedom to be oneself, to fulfill one's potential, and to take responsibility for one's actions. To defend freedom, we must understand its true value, actively engage in its promotion, and recognize the interconnectedness of freedom on a global scale. Only then can we ensure that freedom continues to thrive in the modern era.
Sources:
- [The Tablet](https://www.thetablet.co.uk/blogs/1/2601/true-freedom-is-anchored-in-responsibility-it-is-a-freedom-to-be-and-not-only-a-freedom-from-)
- [Adventist Today](https://atoday.org/bearing-witness-to-fairness-and-freedom/)
- [The Guam Daily Post](https://www.postguam.com/forum/featured_columnists/freedom-and-liberty-what-do-these-terms-really-mean/article_fbbb721a-3b26-11ef-9706-df235517dfcd.html)