Dangerous Freedom
‘I prefer freedom with its dangers to tranquility with servitude.’ The Count Palatine Of Posen
I am reflecting on a recent speech given by one of our leading politicians in our nation this past week, where he has warned the government from overstepping the mark when it comes to the blanket censorship of the Internet in our land.
Now I am one who believes in responsible censorship – as a tool to protect their citizens, by at least giving them sufficient information so that they then can make their own informed and wise decisions for both themselves, and to also assist them as they guide their children to make wise choices.
But when it comes to a point where the government steps in to overtake even the possibility of having that freedom to choose, then this is where I believe a government has stepped in too far – by becoming BIG BROTHER.
And when it comes to the Internet they will be setting a precedent that could result in the creation of a ‘Cyberspace Curtain’. And from our historical experience of the iron curtain and the bamboo curtain which impinged on religious freedom, freedom of speech and political freedom – this action can only lead to the alienation of many in our society.
Unfortunately, when it comes to governing a nation, and maintaining law and order, there are some in authority who seem to think that we as citizens are incapable of making wise decisions, and that we somehow need to be TOLD what to do in order to sustain a safe and democratic society.
But where is the democracy? Shouldn’t we as a democratic society be issued with the opportunity to make our own decisions, and be given the respect as citizens who can demonstrate their own commonsense without ‘common – censorship’ that is enforced by government and those seated in authoritative lofty towers.
Not every law is a good law. History has proven that. At times the law is a complete and utter ass – often fueled by fear and the unknown. But surely a land led under God should allow its citizens to exercise their democratic right when it comes to choosing between that which is right and that which is wrong.
I also agree with the politician, that if a law has been created, but after time has been found wanting, it should be quashed. Stupid laws lead to stupid government, stupid administration, stupid policing and stupid enforcement, and result in wrongly treated and abused breakers of the stupid laws. Now that in my mind is completely stupid.
We are instructed in the Bible to love God, to love our neighbours and to pray for those who are in leadership. Nowhere does it say that we should settle in a state of servitude. My prayer is that our leadership demonstrate wisdom in relation to this matter.
Freedom is at times dangerous. It can be volatile and turbulent, but I would rather live my life in freedom – making my own choices and sometimes even making mistakes, but in doing so defining my own free life – serving in my own free way – than to ever spend a minute chained to the tranquility of servitude.
