Pericles: 'Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it.'

Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it.

Pericles, the influential Athenian statesman, once declared that "Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it." This powerful quote encapsulates the essence of freedom and its inherent connection to bravery. Essentially, Pericles suggests that true freedom can only be attained by those who are willing to stand up and fight for it. In a straightforward interpretation, this quote emphasizes the importance of actively protecting and preserving our freedom. However, let us introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that will further ignite our interest and understanding of the quote: existentialism.Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, explores the nature of human existence, freedom, and individuality. We shall delve into its relation to Pericles' quote, analyzing both similarities and contrasts to shed light on the broader implications of his statement.At a fundamental level, Pericles' quote aligns with the essence of existentialism, which emphasizes individual agency and responsibility. Existentialists argue that freedom entails taking complete ownership of our actions and decisions, acknowledging that our choices shape our existence. Likewise, Pericles conveys that freedom is not a passive state or an entitlement granted by others—it is an active pursuit that requires our courage and determination.Furthermore, existentialism highlights the importance of authenticity and self-expression. Existentialist thinkers often wrestle with questions of meaning and purpose in life, urging individuals to live in accordance with their true selves. Just as existentialism encourages us to live genuinely, Pericles urges us to defend our freedom courageously, bravely expressing who we truly are in the face of adversity.However, while existentialism emphasizes individual freedom and the importance of personal choice, it also recognizes the interconnectedness of human existence. Existentialists argue that our freedom is intimately tied to our relationships with others, and that our choices impact not only ourselves but also the world around us. In this sense, Pericles' quote may overlook this aspect of freedom, focusing solely on the individual's responsibility to defend it.Moreover, existentialism raises questions about the nature of freedom itself. While Pericles implies that freedom is a possession that can be acquired and secured through acts of courage, existentialism argues that freedom is an intrinsic part of our existence. According to existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre, we are born into a state of radical freedom, and our choices and actions define who we are. This perspective suggests that freedom cannot be possessed or defended since it is an inherent aspect of our being.In contemplating Pericles' quote from an existentialist lens, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex nature of freedom and courage. Rather than viewing freedom as a fixed entity to be safeguarded, we come to recognize it as a fluid and dynamic attribute inseparable from our existence. We realize that our choices and acts of courage shape not only our individual freedom but also contribute to the collective freedom of society.In conclusion, Pericles' statement that "Freedom is the sure possession of those alone who have the courage to defend it" stresses the responsibility and bravery required to attain and maintain freedom. When explored through the perspective of existentialism, we uncover the interconnectedness of individual freedom and the profound impact our choices have on both ourselves and others. Through this philosophical lens, we gain a heightened appreciation of the complexities that surround the pursuit and preservation of freedom. It reminds us that freedom is not bestowed upon us but rather lies within our grasp, awaiting our courage to claim it.