Position Paper

Liberalism is the collection of ideologies committed to the principle of the dignity and

freedom of the individual as the foundation of society and has respect for the sovereignty for the

reasoning of the individuals. It emphasizes the individuals to be aware and protect their rights and

freedoms and allows them to present their opinions if they feel they are being threatened.

Liberalism allowed people to be able to influence and choose the leaders that represent them to

ensure that what they believe is being expressed. The source presented to us is explaining that

government leaders or individuals who have secured their liberty should guard their opposition

and help them protect their freedom to avoid becoming a target of the enemy if things fall through.

“What he does to others will be done to him” is a saying that helps us to understand the underlying

theme of the quotation in the source. The source respects the dignity of every individual and

recognizes and protects the rights and freedoms of the citizens. We should embrace the perspective

reflected in the source and become aware of the point they are trying to portray. It can be a good

lesson so we can prevent repeating events that have happened in history and can keep peace

between people of different societies.

Some may argue that the government leaders are not respecting the charter of rights and

freedoms that the individual is guaranteed. They complain that the government is supposed to

protect us, the individuals, by protecting our rights and freedoms not by enforcing decisions that

they believe will benefit or protect us from harm. The people who express this opinion or concern

don’t understand that Liberal leaders of Democracy have found it necessary to limit people’s

liberties in extreme situations such as war, times of crisis or country disaster. This has become a

necessity for governments to do this because it allows the government to make decisions for the

well being of all.

http://www.freedom4ever.net/freedom_rightfully.htm

http://www.hrea.org/index.php?doc_id=408