Freedom is not a reward for obedience

by Bob Spitzer, Stevensville

Tony Hudson asks, “Can we remain free if we cannot govern ourselves?”

A fair question. But here’s another: Can we remain free when those in power fail to govern themselves?

Mr. Hudson argues that when citizens abandon personal responsibility, government responds with more laws, regulations, surveillance, and control.

But who creates the conditions that make those protections necessary?

When corporations put profits ahead of public safety, politicians put party loyalty ahead of the people, and religious authorities demand unquestioning obedience, is the problem really the moral character of ordinary citizens?

Or have those entrusted with power failed to exercise the very self-restraint Mr. Hudson advocates?

Personal responsibility is essential to freedom. But responsibility must apply to everyone, especially those holding power.

We cannot demand honesty from citizens while excusing dishonesty among leaders. We cannot preach compassion while tolerating cruelty. And we cannot demand accountability from the powerless while allowing the powerful to escape it.

Mr. Hudson writes, “Compliance can be compelled. Character cannot.”

I agree.

But if character cannot be compelled, why do some institutions attempt to enforce morality through fear, intimidation, exclusion, and punishment?

History warns us what happens when governments, political movements, or religious institutions claim the authority to decide what everyone must believe.

Freedom includes the right to disagree, question authority, practice one’s faith or no faith, and reject someone else’s definition of righteousness.

That freedom carries responsibility. But it also protects our right to challenge abuses of authority.

Teach our children honesty, compassion, respect, and responsibility. But teach them something equally important: to think independently, ask difficult questions, recognize injustice, and stand up for others.

A healthy republic needs citizens of good character. It also needs honest leaders, accountable institutions, fair laws, and safeguards against abuses of power.

Mr. Hudson concludes by telling us to choose wisely.

On that, we agree.

But let us remember: Freedom is not a reward for obedience. It is a right belonging to everyone, including those who challenge the people in power.

And if we truly believe in self-government, perhaps we should begin by demanding it from those who seek to govern the rest of us.