Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes whether the political theory of negative freedom is a persuasive argument. It looks at the underlying concept of negative freedom and its interpretation, and the opposing views of negative freedom. It concludes that although a flawed argument, it is supported by solid theories, therefore is persuasive.

From the Paper:

"The concept of freedom is a core value of society, many believing that a greater amount of freedom will lead to a greater and more fulfilling lifestyle. As a result the concept has been subject to a range of philosophical discussions, in particular the balancing of freedom and order. For example, by limiting freedom through laws which prohibit certain actions such as murder, greater freedom is enjoyed by other members of society. Mill (1982) even suggested that intervention by the state is only viable where one persons actions would cause harm to another. Negative freedom is the dominant concept of liberals, distinguished to positive freedom by Berlin (1969) in his article "Two Concepts of Liberty". Negative freedom refers to "the sphere of action within which an individual is left alone to do or be whatever he or she may want to do or be" (Carter, 2002). Through close examination of this concept, it's interpretation and opposing views of freedom, it's validity as a "persuasive" theory can be inferred."

Visitors who viewed this Essay also liked these:

• Essay # 63263 : "Theory of Negative Freedom"
• Essay # 7508 : "The Role of the Press"
• Essay # 45498 : "Fredrick Herzberg"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: