Exploring the Relationship Between Freedom and Crime

Freedom is a term often used and often misused, particularly in discussions around crime. The notion of freedom is multi-faceted, encompassing not only individual liberty but also the psychological state of being unburdened by self-doubt, manipulation, and shame. This article delves into the intricate relationship between freedom and crime, examining whether the freedom to commit crime truly exists.

Psychological Freedom: A Key to Understanding

Kevin Everett FitzMaurice defines psychological freedom as being free from several interrelated negative influences:

Free from having to prove your self Free from having to justify your self Free from the fear of self-ridicule Free from self-doubt Free from self-damning Free from manipulation of your ego Free from your ego Free from the game of pride or shame Free from the lies of self-esteem Free from the pressure to be something Free from the pressures to become something Free from self-rating Free from other-rating Free from depression Free from shame Free from pride Free from ego based anger Free from ego based anxiety Free from competition Free from personality politics Free from voodoo emotions Free from pushing your own buttons and blaming others for it Free from the blame game Free from whining to win Free from damning Free from envy Free from consuming to be something Free from compulsively protecting your ego, self-esteem, pride Free from slavery to ego, self-esteem, pride Free from the endless death of becoming

This definition reveals that true freedom, in psychological terms, is a state of being where one is unburdened by such negative influences. Such a state of being likely precludes committing crimes against others, as those influenced are more likely to act with consideration of the impact on others.

Freedom and Crime: A Statistical and Anecdotal Phenomenon

The relationship between freedom and crime is often difficult to establish due to the statistical and anecdotal nature of the connection. While data on freedom and crime can provide insights, people tend to find justifications for their behaviors, whether legal or criminal. The possession of reasoning capacity and the desire to seek comfort and security often underpin these justifications.

When considering the freedom to act versus the freedom from responsibility, it becomes clear that true freedom in society implies more than merely the freedom to do as one pleases. It necessitates the ability to act with a sense of personal responsibility and to understand and accept the consequences of one's actions, even in the face of societal structure and legal constraints.

Freedom from Responsibility vs. Freedom to Act Responsibly

The freedom from responsibility is a concept that highlights the lack of accountability individuals might feel in certain situations. This unaccountability is starkly different from the responsibility that comes with being a mature, entitled member of society. True freedom, therefore, lies in the ability to act responsibly within one's society, not in the freedom to act without considering the impact on others.

While individuals might find ways to blame others or avoid taking responsibility, true freedom compels one to recognize their actions and their consequences. This understanding of personal responsibility is crucial in maintaining a just and fair society, where crimes are not merely the result of a lack of freedom, but rather, the result of a failure to act responsibly.

Understanding the balance between freedom and responsibility can help in addressing the complex issue of crime more effectively. By promoting a culture of personal accountability and psychological freedom, both on an individual and societal level, we can work towards reducing crime and fostering a more just and harmonious society.

Ultimately, the relationship between freedom and crime is a multifaceted one, and addressing it requires a nuanced approach that acknowledges the psychological, social, and legal dimensions involved.