Understanding the Concept of "Freedom from Fear"
The Role of "Freedom from Fear" in Covid Policies
The phrase "freedom from fear" has been a significant justification for many of the most oppressive Covid pandemic policies. As stated by Georgetown University Law professor Lawrence Gostin in late 2021, Covid-19 vaccines are a remarkable scientific tool that enables society to live with more freedom and less fear. He argued that using every tool, including mandates, to achieve high vaccination coverage enhances freedom.
The Historical Use of "Freedom from Fear"
For almost a century, "freedom from fear" has been a popular phrase among political charlatans. It has become one of the most common political promises in this century. Politicians often portray freedom from fear as the pinnacle of freedom, surpassing the specific freedoms protected by the Bill of Rights. While the definition of "freedom from fear" varies among presidents, the common thread is that it necessitates the deployment of government agents.
How Different Presidents Have Used "Freedom from Fear"
"Freedom from fear" first became a part of American political discourse due to a January 1941 speech by President Franklin Roosevelt. In his State of the Union address, he promised citizens freedom of speech and freedom of worship, then added socialist-style "freedom from want" and "freedom from fear." However, FDR's revised freedoms did not include freedom to dissent.
Richard Nixon, in his acceptance speech at the 1968 Republican National Convention, promised to re-establish freedom from fear in America. Nixon asserted that the first civil right of every American is to be free from domestic violence, a right that must be guaranteed in this country.
President George H.W. Bush, President Bill Clinton, and President George W. Bush also used the term "freedom from fear" in their speeches and policies, often linked with fear-mongering tactics.
"Freedom from Fear" in Recent Times
In the 2020 presidential race, Democratic candidate Joe Biden blamed President Donald Trump for every one of the 220,000 Covid deaths in the nation. Biden promised safety, implying that the only way to survive was to put him in the White House.
In June 2021, Biden proclaimed that everyone must get a Covid vaccine so that America could have "freedom from fear." He declared that people should exercise their freedom to get vaccinated with a drug approved on an emergency basis six months earlier.
The Problem with "Freedom from Fear"
"Freedom from fear" is essentially a blank check for politicians. The more people the government scares, the more legitimate dictatorial policies become. Pledging "freedom from fear" allows politicians to seize power over anything that scares anyone.
Bottom Line
"Freedom from fear" offers freedom from everything except the government. It implies that freedom is a risk-free, worry-free condition, which is a promise that a mother would make to a young child. However, painting the motto "freedom from fear" on shackles won't make them easier to bear.
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