"True liberty consists only in the power of doing what we ought to will, and in not being constrained to do what we ought not to will"

Jonathan Edwards' quote, "True liberty consists only in the power of doing what we should will, and in not being constrained to do what we ought not to will", presents a nuanced perspective on the concept of liberty. At its core, this declaration challenges the common understanding of liberty as mere autonomy or the capability to act according to one's desires without restraint. Rather, Edwards frames true liberty as fundamentally connected to ethical and ethical principles.

The phrase "doing what we ought to will" recommends that real flexibility includes aligning one's actions and desires with a moral compass or an inner voice. It implies that liberty is not just about the absence of external restraints, however also about internal assistance towards virtuous or righteous habits. This perspective echoes ideas from ethical approach that posit genuine flexibility is not the unrestricted pursuit of individual desires, but rather the capability to pick and act upon what is ethically best.

On the flip side, "not being constrained to do what we ought not to will" talks to flexibility from coercion into immoral or unethical actions. This component highlights the importance of autonomy in decision-making, making sure that people are not required to go against their moral judgments. It highlights the value of having the firm to decline involvement in actions that conflict with one's ethical beliefs.

Edwards' concept of "true liberty" recommends that it is naturally connected to ethical duty. It is not simply the elimination of barriers, but the empowerment to make choices that align with a greater set of ethical requirements. This understanding raises liberty beyond individual gain, positioning it as a state where individuals are free to fulfill their ethical commitments and are secured from being compelled into misbehavior. Such a perspective welcomes people to assess the intersection of liberty, morality, and individual company in society.