Thinking Freely

by Peter Saint-Andre

2025-04-24

While collectively we slouch towards tyranny, individually I continue to ponder some of the many methods people have proposed for counteracting that trend. Amidst all the particular suggestions, one thing I have not seen mentioned is adopting the attitude of a free person. This strikes me as seemingly simple but in fact both difficult and fundamental.

Because I'm deep into Aristotle research these days, I'll point out a dozen of his relevant observations, but rephrase them as actionable advice:

  1. Don't flatter a tyrant.
  2. Don't be susceptible to the flattering words of a demagogue.
  3. Don't put up with disrespect and ill treatment from corrupt, unethical, tyrannical rulers.
  4. Don't get in the habit of thinking small; instead, think proudly and freely.
  5. Never forget that you and your fellow citizens don't deserve to be lorded over by all-powerful rulers.
  6. Honor and keep your dignity.
  7. Strengthen the bonds of brotherhood.
  8. Work with and build trust among your friends, neighbors, and other members of your community.
  9. Exercise what power you have to the best of your abilities.
  10. Educate yourself about political philosophy and political history.
  11. Cultivate thrivings of character, especially courage, moderation, justice, and wisdom.
  12. Because politics exists to serve human flourishing, never stop pursuing the highest activities of a free people.

The basic idea is this: those who stand straight and tall don't slouch in the first place, whether towards tyranny or any other form of human languishing, injustice, and corruption.

(Cross-posted at Beautiful Wisdom.)

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