On Freedom and Constraints: A Critical View

Abstract

This thesis will examine shared presuppositions and assumptions made by a wide range of freedom theorists regarding what counts as a freedom-reducing constraint. In particular, it will focus primarily on ‘intention-based’ and ‘responsibility-based’ views of constraints. It will also look closely at theoretical positions regarding social freedom, broadness, ordinary language, and non-human caused constraints more generally. Following this, a general critique of the negative freedom theorists’ positions will occur. The thesis concludes that the presuppositions and assumptions underlining the chosen negative theorists approaches to the question of constraints that cause unfreedom is limited, overly narrow, and flawed, and requires a new, broader, and more holistic approach. One that can make freedom a more useful concept within political theory.