12: The Paradox of Freedom

In Good Faith

On today's show, Chong and Dan return to the topic of freedom. We start by responding to a thoughtful emailer who questioned the way we traced the popular definition of freedom to the Existentialist movement. We then delve deeper into the idea that freedom is not about lack of constraints, but rather the presence of good constraints that help us to pursue good objectives. We finish by talking about the Christian perspective on freedom - what does it say that we are free from and free for, and why do we think it is compelling?
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Show notes
Responding to a thoughtful emailer (02:35)

• Did we 'straw-man' Existentialism?
• Ideas matter, and they evolve over time

A different idea of freedom (10:41)

• Examples of gaining freedom in pursuing good objectives via good constraints
• Professional sport, raising a child, being a moral person, relationships

The Christian perspective - 'free from' (32:54)

• We are free from the bondage of sin
• "Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship."

This is Water by David Foster Wallace (Full Transcript and Audio)
The Christian perspective - 'free for' (53:47)

• We are free to have a relationship with God
• Christian freedom is expressed in love of God and love of others

Conclusion (1:01:16)

• A Holy Sonnet by John Donne

Batter my heart, three-person'd God

Chapters

1. 12: The Paradox of Freedom (00:00:00)

2. Responding to a thoughtful emailer (00:02:35)

3. A different idea of freedom (00:10:41)

4. The Christian perspective - 'free from' (00:32:54)

5. The Christian perspective - 'free for' (00:53:47)

6. Conclusion (01:01:16)