The interplay between freedom and responsibility is a core concept in logotherapy and could serve as a fundamental principle for a sustainable political culture. In an era where the concept of freedom is often discussed without its intrinsic link to responsibility, the key question arises: How can we create a political culture that understands freedom not as unrestricted arbitrariness but as consciously chosen responsibility?
1. The Distorted Concept of Freedom in Politics
- Public debate often reduces freedom to freedom from restrictions (negative freedom) while neglecting freedom for responsible action (positive freedom).
- Political programs frequently emphasize individual rights, while duties and responsibilities receive little attention.
- Example: The debate on freedom of speech vs. hate speech – when does freedom turn into recklessness?
2. Frankl’s Concept of Freedom as a Political Compass
- Frankl emphasized that human beings can always make choices, even under the most adverse conditions. This inner freedom transcends mere external liberties.
- “Freedom is only one side of the coin, whose other side is responsibility.”
- Political leaders could apply this principle by designing laws and policies that balance individual rights with collective responsibilities.
3. Freedom and Responsibility in Democracy
- Democracies must strike a balance between personal freedom and social cohesion.
- The current crisis of democratic systems: Extremist positions (both left and right) tend to either emphasize individual freedom at the expense of community or community at the expense of individual freedom.
- How can politics integrate both poles? Examples: citizen participation, corporate social responsibility in economic policies.
4. Changing Values and Awareness of Responsibility
- How can political education foster a sense of responsibility?
- The contemporary trend toward individualism and self-optimization often leads to a detachment from social responsibility.
- Meaning-oriented education as a solution: People who recognize a deeper sense in their actions are more likely to take responsibility for their surroundings.
5. Concrete Political Implications
- Labor market policies: Should the state take care of the unemployed, or do businesses bear a responsibility?
- Climate policies: Should governments impose bans or rather create incentives for responsible action?
- The welfare state: How much self-responsibility can be expected from individuals without overwhelming them?
6. A Call for a Responsible Society
- Politics should not only promote freedom of choice but also a culture of responsibility.
- The necessity of an “ethics of self-responsibility”: Less regulation, more awareness-building.
- Do we need a “Ministry of Responsibility”? A governmental institution for social cohesion and ethics?