"Humanism: an exaltation of freedom, but one limited by our need to exercise it as an integral part of nature and society"
- John Ralston Saul
About this Quote
In this quote, John Ralston Saul touches upon a nuanced understanding of humanism, which generally stresses specific self-respect and the capacity of human beings to govern themselves through factor. However, Saul presents a duality to this concept by juxtaposing the exaltation of freedom with the inherent restrictions imposed by nature and society. This interplay recommends a well balanced view of human freedom, one that acknowledges our goals for individual liberty while recognizing the interdependencies that define our presence.
The exaltation of freedom shows humanism's core belief in individual autonomy and the capacity for self-determination. It highlights the human spirit's yearning to break free from restrictions, to explore, produce, and reveal oneself totally. This aspect of humanism celebrates the potential for growth, learning, and individual evolution, guaranteeing that every person has the opportunity to pursue their distinct path.
Nevertheless, Saul warns that this flexibility is not outright. Here, "limited by our requirement to exercise it as an important part of nature and society" presents a layer of obligation and interconnectedness. Living as part of nature means acknowledging environmental borders and biological needs that we can not transcend without effect. It recommends that true freedom involves living in consistency with the natural world, acknowledging that our actions have environmental impacts and ethical ramifications.
Concurrently, being an integral part of society indicates that our actions are woven into a social material with shared standards, values, and mutual dependences. Social structures and cultural contexts provide the structure within which freedom is worked out. They inform ethical behavior and advise us that our liberties are intertwined with the liberties of others, fostering a sense of communal responsibility.
Therefore, Saul's viewpoint on humanism is a call for a diligent balance between individual liberty and the responsibilities that occur from our interconnectedness with the environment and the social collective. It is an invitation to work out freedom attentively and properly, guaranteeing it adds to the well-being of both individuals and the larger whole.
"We are all different. Yet we are all God's children. We are all united behind this country and the common cause of freedom, justice, fairness, and equality. That is what unites us"
"The end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom. For in all the states of created beings capable of law, where there is no law, there is no freedom"
