Books matching: individual liberty
20 result(s)
- #1
Save:'On Liberty' by John Stuart Mill is a seminal work of libertarian philosophy that focuses on the proper role of the individual versus the state and society. Mill argues for individual freedom and non-intervention by society unless an individual's actions harm others. The book delves into topics such as the importance of individual liberty, the potential harms of societal restrictions, and the role of government in protecting individual rights. Mill's writing style is described as readable, insightful, and thought-provoking, tackling complex philosophical ideas with clarity and depth.
The time, it is to be hoped, is gone by, when any defence would be necessary of the ‘liberty of the press’ as one of the securities against corrupt or tyrannical government. No argument, we may suppos... - #2
Save:"Fire on the Mountain" by Edward Abbey is a novel set in the West, portraying the struggle of an aging rancher, John Vogelin, against the US government's attempts to take over his land for the White Sands Missile Range expansion. Through the eyes of Vogelin's grandson and other characters, Abbey weaves a tale of defiance, love for the land, and the clash between individual liberty and governmental authority. The book is praised for its vivid descriptions of the desert landscape, the emotional connection to the characters, and the philosophical musings on nature preservation and personal freedom.
Brightest New Mexico. In the vivid light each rock and tree and cloud and mountain existed with a kind of force and clarity that seemed not natural but supernatural. Yet it also felt as familiar as ho... - #3
Save:Henry David Thoreau's 'Walden and Civil Disobedience' is a collection of writings that delve into themes of nature, self-reliance, contemplation, and individual responsibility. The book follows Thoreau's experiment in simple living at Walden Pond, where he reflects on the wonders of nature, the ways of man, and the human condition. Through his observations of the changing seasons and wildlife, Thoreau invites readers to contemplate their own place in the world and the universe. In 'Civil Disobedience', Thoreau presents a classic protest against government interference with individual liberty, advocating for passive resistance and influencing non-violent resistance movements worldwide.
1823 The Thoreau family returns to Concord, where Henry’s father takes over the family pencil-making business. Henry enters the Concord Center School. Continued financial strain forces his mother to t... Milton Friedman's 'Free to Choose: A Personal Statement' presents a compelling argument for maximizing free choice within societal limits. The book delves into various topics such as the benefits of free markets, the role of government in regulating natural monopolies, and the importance of individual freedom in economic growth. Friedman's writing style is clear, rational, and thought-provoking, making complex economic theories accessible to non-economists. Drawing on historical examples and data, the book advocates for free trade, limited government intervention, and the promotion of individual liberties.
Every day each of us uses innumerable goods and services—to eat, to wear, to shelter us from the elements, or simply to enjoy. We take it for granted that they will be available when we want to buy th...- #5
Save:The Road to Serfdom by Friedrich A. Hayek is a profound defense of commercial society and limited government. Hayek argues that socialism and planning eventually lead to totalitarianism, emphasizing the importance of individual liberty for economic growth and opportunities. The book explores the consequences of socialism on hard work and free markets, drawing parallels between socialism and fascism. Hayek's writing style is characterized as non-technical and easy to read, although some opinions mention that the argument emerges slowly with repeated points made throughout the book.
When the course of civilization takes an unexpected turn—when, instead of the continuous progress which we have come to expect, we find ourselves threatened by evils associated by us with past ages of... - #6
Save:In the book 'The Unincorporated Man' by Dani and Eytan Kollin, the story is set 350 years in the future where most citizens are incorporated entities whose shares trade on the open market. The protagonist, Justin Cord, a 21st-century billionaire revived after being frozen in cryogenic stasis, refuses to incorporate himself, sparking a political uprising against the incorporated system. The novel delves into the complex world where individuals are born incorporated, with personal portfolios divided into shares that come with voting rights and dividends, exploring themes of autonomy, societal control, and the struggle for freedom in a world dominated by corporate power.
The writing style of the authors intricately weaves together political discussions, futuristic technology, corporate intrigue, and societal upheaval, creating a thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to contemplate the fragile nature of freedom, the impact of corporate influence on individual liberties, and the potential consequences of a society where individuals are constantly held accountable to shareholders.
The counterpart for education (financing) would be to “buy” a share in an individual’s earning prospects; to advance him the funds needed to finance his training on condition that he agree to pay the ... - #7
Save:'Gideon's Trumpet' by Anthony Lewis delves into the landmark case of Gideon v. Wainwright, where Clarence Earl Gideon fought for his right to counsel before the Supreme Court. Through a detailed account of Gideon's journey, readers are exposed to the intricacies of the legal system, the evolution of the right to counsel law, and the Supreme Court's role in shaping individual liberties. Anthony Lewis weaves together the personal narrative of Gideon with the broader implications of the Court's decision, offering a compelling exploration of justice, civil rights, and the intersection of an individual's life with a national institution.
In the morning mail of January 8, 1962, the Supreme Court of the United States received a large envelope from Clarence Earl Gideon, prisoner No. 003826, Florida State Prison, P.O. Box 221, Raiford, Fl... - #8
Save:"Pox: An American History" by Michael Willrich dives into the history of smallpox in America, focusing on the medical science, public health officials, and the political and social dynamics surrounding the disease at the turn of the 20th century. It explores the battle against fear, ignorance, and resistance to new scientific advancements in the quest to treat and prevent smallpox, shedding light on the struggles faced during that era. The narrative intertwines the stories of various epidemic outbreaks, the development of vaccinations, and the legal history of the government's growing police powers in response to public health crises.
The writing style of the book is described as engaging and fascinating, with well-researched content that reads like a medical and social novel. It covers the history of smallpox and the vaccination movement, providing historical context for understanding the opposing views on public health crises. The author presents various sides and points of view without bias, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the facts presented, making it a valuable read for those interested in medical history and scientific developments.
In the book Eugenics and Other Evils, G. K. Chesterton takes on the eugenists and their immoral and unethical program for human breeding, critiquing both positive and negative eugenics. Through a series of paradoxes, Chesterton condemns the program as immoral and unethical, consistent with his Roman Catholic beliefs. He contrasts the servile state towards servility and advocates for a distributivist state, championing property rights and individual liberty. The book also delves into the social Darwinist views of the capitalist class and their involvement in supporting eugenics.
The root formula of an epoch is always an unwritten law, just as the law that is the first of all laws, that which protects life from the murderer, is written nowhere in the Statute Book. Nevertheless...- #10
Save:'The Right to Be Lazy' is a provocative exploration of the relationship between work and individual freedom, penned by Paul Lafargue in the 19th century. The book lays out Lafargue's arguments against the dogma of labor, critiquing the societal obsession with productivity that he argues steals away personal liberty and joy. It touches on themes that remain relevant today, such as universal basic income and the need for a shorter workweek, making it a timeless piece that encourages readers to rethink their perceptions of work and leisure. The writing is characterized by its accessible style and humorous undertones, making complex ideas engaging and relatable.
Lafargue's work serves as a historical reflection on the struggles of the working class during the industrial revolution, juxtaposing the harsh realities of long working hours with the need for a more humane approach to labor. He advocates for a radical reduction in working hours to allow individuals the time to enjoy life, bond with others, and engage in creative thinking. In doing so, he critiques capitalism and highlights the cyclical nature of class warfare, urging readers to consider the implications of their societal roles and the true meaning of productivity.
