Single Idea 8989

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / B. Nature of a State / 2. State Legitimacy / c. Social contract]

Full Idea

While the goods of freedom, such as rights, property, education and prosperity, can be obtained only at a price - the price of loneliness, doubt and alienation - it is a price worth paying.

Gist of Idea

The benefits of social freedom outweigh the loneliness, doubt and alienation it brings

Source

Roger Scruton (Upon Nothing: Swansea lecture [1993])

Book Reference

Scruton,Roger: 'Upon Nothing' [University of Swansea 1993], p.9


A Reaction

A striking way for a liberal-conservative to confront the accusations of the marxists - by conceding a lot of their criticisms, but living with them. I still don't see why we shouldn't aspire to have both.