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Complexity and the Meaning of Freedom

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  • Steven R. Hickerson

Abstract

. The technological and social complexities and synergistic interdependencies of our times have rendered the individualistic, classical liberal view of freedom all but helpless as a guide to intelligent action. An alternative conceptualization is needed. The instrumentalist view, founded as it is in the principle of the continuity of the life process, provides such an alternative. In contrast with the negative“freedom as the absence of coercion” view of the individualists, the instrumentalist views freedom as a positive power of participation in the framing of rules of right conduct. Such power, in order to be instrumentally effective, must also be founded in the best available warranted knowledge of the potential consequences of alternative patterns of rules. This need for a more expansive and relevant view of freedom comes most forcefully into focus at the interface between powerful, but potentially destructive technologies and the attendant need for their social control.

Suggested Citation

  • Steven R. Hickerson, 1984. "Complexity and the Meaning of Freedom," American Journal of Economics and Sociology, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 43(4), pages 435-442, October.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:ajecsc:v:43:y:1984:i:4:p:435-442
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1536-7150.1984.tb01869.x
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    Cited by:

    1. Safarzynska, Karolina & van den Bergh, Jeroen C.J.M., 2010. "Evolving power and environmental policy: Explaining institutional change with group selection," Ecological Economics, Elsevier, vol. 69(4), pages 743-752, February.
    2. Ai-Thu Dang, 1997. "Monnaie, libéralisme et cohésion sociale. Autour de John Locke," Revue Économique, Programme National Persée, vol. 48(3), pages 761-771.
    3. Hatice KÜÇÜKKAYA, 2017. "EUREFE’17 International Conference," Turkish Economic Review, KSP Journals, vol. 4(3), pages 343-344, September.
    4. Aslý YENÝPAZARLI, 2017. "Economic freedom and effects on economic growth: A time series analysis for Turkey," Turkish Economic Review, KSP Journals, vol. 4(3), pages 345-351, September.

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