Timothy Snyder.
In a world grappling with political upheaval and the erosion of democratic norms, Yale historian Timothy Snyder offers a compelling redefinition of freedom. In his 2023 talk in Kyiv, titled Freedom as a Value and a Task, Snyder challenges conventional notions of liberty and presents a framework that resonates deeply with contemporary struggles for democracy.
From 'Freedom From' to 'Freedom To'
Snyder critiques the prevalent Western concept of negative freedom—defined as the absence of constraints—and advocates for a shift towards positive freedom, which emphasizes the capacity to act and make meaningful choices. He argues that true freedom is not merely about being left alone but about having the agency to shape one's life and society. This perspective is particularly poignant in the context of Ukraine's resistance against authoritarian aggression, where the fight is not just for survival but for the right to determine one's future.
The Five Pillars of Freedom
In his book On Freedom, Snyder outlines five essential dimensions of freedom:
Sovereignty: The ability of individuals and nations to self-govern without external domination.
Unpredictability: The openness to new experiences and the capacity for innovation and change.
Mobility: The freedom to move and the access to opportunities beyond one's immediate environment.
Factuality: A commitment to truth and the rejection of misinformation, which is vital for informed decision-making.
Solidarity: The recognition that individual freedom is interconnected with the freedom of others, fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
These pillars underscore that freedom is not an isolated endeavor but a communal one, requiring mutual support and shared values.
Freedom in Practice: Lessons from Ukraine
Snyder's engagement with Ukraine offers a real-world illustration of his theories. He observes that Ukrainians' pursuit of freedom is not abstract but grounded in daily acts of resilience and solidarity. Their struggle exemplifies how freedom involves active participation in democratic processes and the defense of human rights against oppressive forces.
Reclaiming Freedom in the Modern World
Snyder warns that the misinterpretation of freedom as mere individualism can lead to societal fragmentation and vulnerability to authoritarianism. He calls for a reinvigoration of democratic institutions and a recommitment to the collective aspects of freedom, such as education, healthcare, and civic engagement. By doing so, societies can build resilience against the forces that threaten liberty.
Further Reading
Timothy Snyder: Freedom as a Value and a Task – Watch the full talk delivered in Kyiv: YouTube link
Timothy Snyder, On Freedom
Timothy Snyder, On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century
Timothy Snyder, The Road to Unfreedom: Russia, Europe, America
Timothy Snyder, Bloodlands: Europe Between Hitler and Stalin