A Third Concept of Liberty

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Exploring a nuanced definition of liberty, Samuel Fleischacker draws from the philosophies of Kant and Adam Smith to propose that true freedom is rooted in the capacity for judgment. He argues that this understanding differs from both the pursuit of desires and the adherence to rational will. By analyzing key texts, Fleischacker emphasizes that good judgment thrives in supportive social and political environments, yet remains an individual responsibility. This work challenges conventional notions of liberty by highlighting the importance of personal agency in exercising judgment.