GORDON COLLEGE

2nd Semester AY 2022-2023

Course Title: Ethics Professor: Dr. Eder E. Magsayo

Course Code: Date of Submission:
Schedule of Class: Group Number:
Module No 5: Freedom as Foundation of Ethics Student Names:

Freedom, a concept at the heart of human existence, has been a subject of contemplation
for philosophers throughout history. It has evolved, taken different forms, and sparked
debates that have shaped our understanding of individual and societal autonomy.
A. Freedom as a Philosophical Concept:
Historical Perspectives: From Ancient Greece to the Enlightenment:
Ancient Greece:
In ancient Greek philosophy, freedom was often linked to the concept of virtue and the
idea of living a life in accordance with reason. Thinkers like Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle
explored the relationship between personal freedom and moral excellence.

Medieval and Renaissance Thought:

During the Middle Ages, discussions on freedom were often intertwined with
theological considerations. Renaissance thinkers like Machiavelli introduced secular
perspectives on freedom, challenging traditional religious views.

Enlightenment Era:
The Enlightenment brought a revolutionary shift in the understanding of freedom.
Philosophers such as John Locke emphasized the natural rights of individuals, including the
right to life, liberty, and property. This era laid the groundwork for modern notions of
individual freedoms and human rights.

Philosophers' Insights: Aristotle, Kant, Mill, and beyond:

Aristotle:
Aristotle, in his ethical philosophy, saw freedom as a crucial aspect of living a flourishing
life. He emphasized the importance of virtue and the development of rational capacities for
true freedom.
Immanuel Kant:
Kant distinguished between positive and negative freedom. He argued that true
freedom is not just the absence of external constraints (negative freedom) but also involves
the self-imposition of rational moral principles (positive freedom).
John Stuart Mill:
Mill contributed to the understanding of freedom through his principle of harm. He
argued for maximal individual freedom as long as it did not harm others, promoting a
utilitarian perspective on freedom.
Contemporary Perspectives:
Contemporary philosophers have further expanded the discourse on freedom.
Existentialist thinkers like Jean-Paul Sartre emphasized radical individual freedom, while
others explored the intersection of freedom with issues like gender, race, and identity.

B. Dimensions of Freedom:
Negative Freedom: Absence of Constraints:
Definition:
Negative freedom refers to the absence of external constraints or interference in an
individual's actions. It is often associated with the idea that individuals should be free from
coercion or external control.
For example, a society that upholds negative freedom would ensure that individuals are
not arbitrarily arrested, censored, or restrained in ways that limit their choices without just
cause.
Positive Freedom: Capacity for Self-determination:
Definition:
Positive freedom, in contrast, goes beyond the absence of constraints. It involves the
capacity for self-determination, the ability to actively pursue one's goals and lead a life in
accordance with one's values.
Positive freedom might involve access to education, healthcare, and economic
opportunities, enabling individuals to shape their lives in meaningful ways. It also
encompasses the internal freedom to act in line with one's authentic self and values.

In conclusion, the historical journey from ancient Greece to the Enlightenment, coupled
with insights from prominent philosophers, has laid the foundation for a nuanced
understanding of freedom. The distinction between negative and positive freedom adds
depth to this concept, acknowledging not only the absence of external constraints but also
the active capacity for self-determination in the pursuit of a meaningful life.

II. Freedom and Individual Autonomy:

Freedom and individual autonomy are tightly interwoven concepts, with autonomy
often seen as a key manifestation of freedom. Let's delve deeper into the exploration of
autonomy and its dynamic relationship with freedom.

A. Autonomy Defined:
Self-governance and the Power of Choice:
Self-Governance:
Autonomy, at its core, entails the capacity for self-governance. It is the ability of
individuals to make choices, formulate their own values, and guide their actions according to
their rational capacities.

Power of Choice:
 Central to autonomy is the power of choice. Autonomy allows individuals to decide
their course of action, to shape their lives in alignment with their goals, desires, and intrinsic
principles.

Autonomy as a Prerequisite for Moral Responsibility:

Moral Responsibility:
Autonomy is closely tied to moral responsibility. The ability to act autonomously implies
that individuals are morally responsible for their choices. This connection forms the basis for
ethical judgments, as actions are seen as expressions of an individual's autonomous will.
Ethical Decision-Making:
Autonomy becomes a cornerstone in ethical frameworks as it provides the foundation
for genuine moral agency. Ethical decision-making involves not just conforming to external
rules but actively engaging one's moral reasoning and choosing actions based on one's
values.

B. The Interplay of Freedom and Responsibility:

How Freedom Enables Ethical Decision-Making:
Capacity for Deliberation:
Freedom empowers individuals with the capacity for deliberation. It allows for the
consideration of various options and ethical principles before making decisions. Without
freedom, genuine ethical choice would be undermined.
Formation of Ethical Principles:

Freedom enables individuals to engage in the formation of their ethical principles. It

allows for the exploration of diverse perspectives, the questioning of societal norms, and the
development of a personal moral compass.

The Accountability that Accompanies Freedom:

Individual Accountability:
With freedom comes individual accountability. Individuals are accountable for the
consequences of their choices, both to themselves and to society. This accountability is a
crucial aspect of a well-functioning ethical framework.
Social Accountability:
In a societal context, the interplay of freedom and responsibility is manifested through
social accountability. Societies establish norms and laws to guide ethical behavior, and
individuals, in exercising their freedom, are expected to do so within the boundaries set by
these societal agreements.

In conclusion, the relationship between freedom and individual autonomy is symbiotic.

Autonomy, characterized by self-governance and the power of choice, is both a product and
a facilitator of freedom. The interplay of freedom and responsibility is integral to ethical
decision-making, emphasizing the importance of individual accountability in the pursuit of a
just and ethical society. Autonomy, as a prerequisite for moral responsibility, underscores the
deep connection between freedom and the ethical fabric of our actions.
III. The Social Contract:
The concept of the social contract, a cornerstone in political philosophy, explores the
relationship between individuals and society, emphasizing the delicate balance between
individual freedom and the common good. Let's explore the dimensions of freedom within
society and the ethical principles that underpin the social contract.

A. Freedom in Society:

Balancing Individual Freedom with the Common Good:

The Dilemma:

The tension between individual freedom and the common good is a perennial challenge in
societal governance. On one hand, individuals seek autonomy and the freedom to pursue
their interests, while on the other, societies aim for order, stability, and the promotion of the
collective well-being.
Social Contract Thinkers:

Philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau delved into the
notion of the social contract, each proposing unique perspectives on how societies form and
function. Hobbes, for instance, argued that individuals willingly surrender some freedoms in
exchange for security and order, envisioning a powerful authority to maintain social
cohesion.

Rousseau's Social Contract:

Rousseau's social contract theory emphasized the idea of the "general will." According to
Rousseau, individuals come together to form a collective will that represents the common
good. While individuals give up certain liberties, they gain the security and benefits of a well-
ordered society.

Implicit Contract:

The social contract is often understood as an implicit agreement among individuals within a
society. This agreement establishes the rules, norms, and institutions that govern social
interactions, with the aim of balancing individual freedoms and societal needs.
B. Ethical Principles in Society:

Rights and Responsibilities in a Community:

Recognition of Rights:
Ethical principles within a society involve the recognition and protection of individual rights.
These rights, often enshrined in legal and constitutional frameworks, safeguard fundamental
liberties such as freedom of speech, assembly, and privacy.
Corresponding Responsibilities:
Alongside rights, ethical principles emphasize corresponding responsibilities. Individuals are
expected to exercise their freedoms in ways that respect the rights and well-being of others.
This reciprocal relationship between rights and responsibilities forms the ethical foundation
of a just society.

The Challenge of Maintaining Social Cohesion without Infringing on Freedom:

Potential Conflicts:

The challenge lies in navigating potential conflicts between individual freedom and societal
cohesion. While individuals should be free to express themselves, pursue their goals, and
enjoy a level of autonomy, there are limits to this freedom to prevent harm to others or the
destabilization of the social order.
Role of Institutions:

Ethical principles often rely on institutions to mediate these conflicts. Courts, legislatures,
and other social structures interpret and apply the social contract, ensuring that individual
freedoms are exercised within the bounds of ethical and legal norms.

Cultural and Legal Pluralism:

The challenge is accentuated in diverse societies where cultural, religious, and ethical values
may differ. Striking a balance requires the recognition of pluralism and the establishment of
principles that transcend particular cultural or religious perspectives.

The social contract, as a theoretical framework, illuminates the complex relationship between
individual freedom and the common good. Ethical principles within society involve
recognizing and protecting individual rights while emphasizing corresponding responsibilities.
The ongoing challenge lies in navigating potential conflicts and maintaining social cohesion
without infringing excessively on individual freedom, requiring a delicate balance that evolves
in response to the changing dynamics of human societies.

IV. Freedom and Human Rights:

Human rights, grounded in the principle of inherent human dignity, are a critical
extension of the concept of individual freedom. Navigating the complex terrain of human
rights requires a delicate balance between cultural diversity and the universality of ethical
principles.

A. Inherent Dignity:
Human Rights as an Extension of Individual Freedom:

Foundations in Freedom:
Human rights are deeply rooted in the idea that every individual possesses inherent dignity.
This dignity implies a fundamental value and worthiness that forms the basis for the
recognition of certain entitlements and liberties.

Extension of Freedom:

Human rights can be viewed as an extension of individual freedom. They encompass a set of
principles and entitlements that protect individuals from arbitrary treatment, ensuring that
they have the freedom to live with dignity, express themselves, and pursue their aspirations.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights:

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), adopted by the United Nations in 1948,
stands as a milestone in the articulation of human rights. It enumerates a range of rights,
including the right to life, liberty, and security, freedom from torture and discrimination, and
the right to education and work.
Interconnectedness of Rights:

Human rights are interconnected; the realization of one right often depends on the
fulfillment of others. For example, the right to freedom of expression is closely linked to the
right to information and the right to participate in one's governance.

B. Navigating Cultural Relativism:

Balancing Cultural Diversity with Universal Ethical Principles:

Cultural Diversity and Ethical Pluralism:

The world is characterized by cultural diversity, each culture with its own set of values,
norms, and traditions. Navigating human rights in this context involves recognizing and
respecting cultural diversity while upholding fundamental ethical principles.

Universal Ethical Principles:

Despite cultural differences, there is a growing acknowledgment of universal ethical

principles that transcend cultural relativism. The idea is that certain values, like the
prohibition of torture or the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, should
apply universally.

Ensuring Freedom is not Compromised in the Name of Cultural Values:

One of the challenges is ensuring that cultural values do not serve as a justification for
violating human rights. While recognizing cultural diversity, it is essential to delineate
boundaries beyond which actions infringe on universal ethical principles and fundamental
human rights.
Dialogues and Cultural Sensitivity:

Navigating cultural relativism involves engaging in dialogues that respect cultural nuances
and sensitivities. It requires an understanding of the context in which rights are being
discussed and implemented, recognizing that certain rights might be realized differently in
various cultural settings.

International Human Rights Standards:

International human rights standards, as embodied in treaties and conventions, provide a

common framework that countries commit to upholding. These standards serve as a
benchmark for evaluating a nation's treatment of its citizens, offering a shared foundation for
the protection of human rights worldwide.

The relationship between freedom and human rights is evident in the recognition of inherent
human dignity. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights serves as a comprehensive
articulation of these rights. Navigating cultural relativism requires striking a delicate balance
between respecting cultural diversity and upholding universal ethical principles, ensuring that
freedom is not compromised in the name of cultural values. The challenge lies in fostering a
global ethos that respects diverse cultures while holding steadfast to the fundamental
principles that safeguard the dignity and freedom of every individual.
V. Challenges to Freedom in the 21st Century:
In the 21st century, the landscape of freedom is undergoing dynamic changes, with
technology and globalization posing significant challenges. Let's explore two critical aspects:
the impact of technology on personal freedom, particularly in the realm of privacy, and the
ethical implications of economic systems in the era of globalization.

A. Technology and Privacy:

The Impact of Digital Advancements on Personal Freedom:

Surveillance and Digital Monitoring:

The proliferation of digital technologies has led to an unprecedented level of surveillance.

From social media platforms to government agencies, individuals are subjected to continuous
monitoring, impacting their freedom to express opinions, form dissenting views, and engage
in private activities without scrutiny.

Erosion of Privacy:

The interconnected nature of modern technology has led to an erosion of privacy. Personal
information is often collected, analyzed, and monetized by corporations and governments,
raising concerns about the extent to which individuals can maintain autonomy over their
personal data.
Algorithmic Decision-Making:

Automated decision-making processes, driven by algorithms, can affect individual freedom.

From job applications to credit scoring, these algorithms can perpetuate biases, limiting
opportunities for certain individuals and impacting their freedom to participate fully in
societal processes.

Ethical Considerations in Surveillance and Data Collection:

Balance Between Security and Privacy:

The ethical dilemma lies in finding a balance between ensuring security and respecting
individual privacy. Policies and regulations must navigate this delicate terrain, providing
safeguards against unwarranted intrusions into personal lives while addressing legitimate
concerns related to public safety.
Transparency and Informed Consent:

Ethical data practices require transparency and informed consent. Individuals should be
aware of how their data is collected, used, and shared, and they should have the agency to
make informed decisions about their privacy.

Regulatory Frameworks:

The development and enforcement of robust regulatory frameworks become crucial in

ensuring ethical standards in technology. Governments, international organizations, and tech
companies play a role in establishing rules that protect individual freedoms in the digital age.

B. Globalization and Economic Freedom:

Examining the Ethical Implications of Economic Systems:

Wealth Disparities:

Globalization has led to economic interconnectedness, but it has also exacerbated wealth
disparities. The concentration of economic power in the hands of a few can limit
opportunities for marginalized communities and impact their economic freedom.

Labor Practices:

Ethical concerns arise in the context of labor practices, particularly in developing countries.
Exploitative working conditions, child labor, and environmental degradation associated with
certain industries raise questions about the ethical foundations of global economic systems.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility gains significance in addressing the ethical
implications of economic systems. Companies are increasingly expected to consider the
impact of their operations on communities, the environment, and human rights.

Addressing Disparities and Ensuring Equitable Access to Opportunities:

Inclusive Economic Policies:

Ethical economic systems should prioritize inclusive policies that address disparities. This
involves not only wealth distribution but also ensuring equitable access to education,
healthcare, and opportunities for economic advancement.
International Collaboration:

Addressing global economic challenges requires international collaboration. Ethical

considerations should guide negotiations on trade agreements, development aid, and policies
that impact the economic well-being of diverse populations across the globe.
Empowering Vulnerable Communities:

Ethical economic systems should focus on empowering vulnerable communities. This

includes providing support for small businesses, investing in education and skill development,
and creating avenues for meaningful participation in economic activities.

The challenges to freedom in the 21st century are intricately tied to technological
advancements and the dynamics of a globalized economy. Navigating these challenges
requires a concerted effort to establish ethical frameworks that prioritize individual rights,
privacy, and equitable opportunities. As we progress further into the digital age and the era
of globalization, the ethical considerations surrounding freedom will remain at the forefront
of societal discourse.

Learning Tasks. Answer the following comprehensively.

1. How does the concept of freedom, as discussed in the philosophical context,
contribute to the development of ethical principles?
Your answer:

2. Considering the interplay of freedom and individual autonomy, how does the concept
 of autonomy serve as a prerequisite for moral responsibility? Can you provide
examples of situations where autonomy and moral responsibility might come into
tension, and how should societies navigate such conflicts?
Your answer:

3. In the context of human rights as an extension of individual freedom, how do cultural

relativism and universal ethical principles intersect?
Your answer: