Individual Freedom and the Social Welfare

Abstract

Freedom as the category refers primarily to philosophical or legal concepts. But in reality, freedom is a determinant, directly affecting the welfare. In these terms it includes an implementation of the decision-making capacity by individuals and actions in accordance with personal interests. The author attempts to critically analyze the freedom concepts. The freedom means that each person is free from any restrictions («negative freedom»), is free to act («positive freedom») and is able to make his own choices («psychological freedom»). In practice, these ideas are inseparable. Analysis of individual freedom involves consideration of man as a rational, autonomous actor. An alternative to this concept is the social freedom concept; it presupposes the freedom of human relations. The aim of the study is not to measure the degree of freedom in society, but is to analyze the mutual determination of the social welfare level and individual freedom. The state is a guarantor of rights and freedom equality, and the main challenge for him is not to become a "nanny-state" with an excessive emphasis on the paternal function. Paternalism in this regard is considered in the paper as an interference with individual freedom. However, it serves a good purpose - help individuals - and can be justified if a person increases the opportunities for the implementation of a rational choice or other moral reasons.

Keywords

• social welfare
• freedom
• rational choice
• preferences
• paternalism