True Freedom in America: Beyond Wealth and Civil Liberties

When it comes to discussing freedom in the United States, it is essential to look beyond the immediate surface of material wealth and civil liberties. The true essence of freedom encompasses much more than the absence of restrictions or regulations. It involves profound mental and psychological freedom, a concept that is often overlooked in the haste to attribute freedom to monetary wealth.

Where Does the US Stand?

Despite ranking 15th on the World Freedom Index, the United States is not as free as many Americans assume. While it is clear that American society offers greater civil liberties and freedoms of information, thought, and openness compared to many Middle Eastern nations like Saudi Arabia and Iran, this broader view of freedom is lacking in profound ways. True freedom is rooted in the absence of domination, whether physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual. However, America falls short in this crucial aspect.

Challenges of Modern American Society

The current state of American society is marked by profound divisions and a culture of intense hatred on social media and online forums. The mental and emotional wellbeing of individuals is increasingly under threat from harsh societal divisions and constant name-calling. This environment has created a society where individuals are so entangled in their own opinions that they are oblivious to the bigger picture.

European Perspective on Freedom

From a more mature and broader perspective, Europe has reached a higher level of political and psychological freedom. When discussing issues that resonate deeply with a majority, Americans seem to grasp these matters with far less intensity than their European counterparts. This sad reality underscores the need for a more sophisticated understanding and application of freedom that encompasses mental and psychological liberation.

True freedom, or as stated by the ancient philosopher, is to be “free” from “domination.” This is not limited to physical and legal frameworks alone. True freedom also requires mental and psychological freedom, a state of being where individuals are not dominated by negative emotions, thoughts, or societal pressures. The intense polarization and division observed in American society stand as stark examples of the lack of true freedom.

The Importance of Community and Selflessness

The concept of freedom is often misunderstood. Freedom is not merely about doing whatever one wants, regardless of others. True freedom involves seeing oneself as a part of the greater whole, recognizing one's moral duties towards their community and the world at large. It is about being selfless and embracing an enlightened responsibility based on higher universal principles.

Mental and Psychological Dimensions of Freedom

The conflict in the United States is deeply rooted in unresolved and contradictory personal psychologies, leading to a black-and-white, dualistic sense of righteousness. Many individuals, from all sides of the political spectrum, are hardened by their beliefs and are unable to engage with others in a constructive manner. This cultural divide is a significant impediment to the broader understanding of true freedom.

Building True Freedom Through Empathy and Understanding

To achieve true freedom, one must not be threatened by the views of others, even those deeply different. True freedom is about remaining non-reactive, open to challenging one's own beliefs, and engaging maturely and positively with others. It is about recognizing that we can be both right and wrong, and that empathy and deep understanding are key to building a more united society. By judging others based on their character and integrity rather than their political backgrounds, a society can progress towards a higher form of community and individual freedom.

In conclusion, the challenge for America lies not just in the absence of restrictions but in fostering a deeper sense of mental and psychological freedom. By embracing true freedom, a society can transcend the divides and embrace a more inclusive and harmonious future.