Difference between Liberty and Freedom

We have heard terms like liberty and freedom. Many times there had been protests, fights, wars in history for freedom and liberty. The process of getting freedom for a nation is quite difficult. For instance, India became free from the Britishers after a very long period of time. Being able to express yourself freely is freedom. But what is the difference between liberty and freedom. We have often confused ourselves with these two terms. They both might mean almost the same, but they do have some differences. But before moving on with the differences, let us first talk about the basic meaning of liberty and freedom.

Liberty

Liberty is defined as the situation in which a person has the right to act according to his/ her will. Liberty also means being free from any oppression. Well, it is interesting to know that liberty also has a symbolic meaning. In India, liberty is known as 'mukti,' i.e., dissolution with the divine. Different nations have different notions of liberty. Liberty means different in politics and biblical sense. For instance, in India, liberation also means being consciously aware of oneself. Since India is a land of mystics, there are different connotations attached to the term.

Freedom

Freedom is defined as the situation in which a person has the right to speak, act, and think according to his / her own way. The Constitution of India has several fundamental rights that define freedom. Freedom of speech and expression, freedom of religion, freedom of education, etc., are some of the fundamental rights of India. Well, it is interesting to note that freedom does not have a political realm, i.e., freedom can be practised in houses, among people, or nations. Now, let us discuss the basic points of contrast between liberty and freedom.

So, these are some of the major points of contrast between liberty and freedom. Freedom is the state of being free from any oppression, while liberty is the freedom to act in one's own way. Liberty is a significant concept because people enjoying liberty have to take responsibility for their actions performed. Freedom, on the other hand, is a concrete concept. Freedom is synonymous with independence. Well, there are several types of liberty and freedom. So, let us take a look at them.

Types of Freedom

1. Freedom of Association: Freedom of Association is defined as the right to join a particular group or community in order to reach a common goal. The groups include labor unions, business groups, etc.
2. Freedom of Belief: Freedom is Belief is defined as the right to have faith in a particular thought. For instance, some people believe that are ghosts, while some believe there aren't any ghosts.
3. Freedom of Speech & Expression: Freedom of Speech & Expression is defined as the right to speak freely about perspectives, ideas, and opinions.
4. Freedom of Religion: Freedom of Religion is defined as the right to practice any religion despite belonging to any community.
5. Freedom of Education: Freedom of Education is defined as the right to practice and learn various skills. Education is the right of every individual. Thus, the right to education implies that every individual be it poor or rich.

Types of Liberty

1. Natural Liberty: Natural Liberty is defined as the liberty in which a person can do anything he/ she wishes.
2. Civil Liberty: Civil Liberty is defined as the liberty in which the society enjoys the law or rights provided by the government.
3. Political Liberty: Political Liberty is defined as the liberty in which the people have the right to participate in the decision-making of the country.
4. Personal Liberty: Personal Liberty is defined as the liberty in which a person acts according to his/ her own wish.
5. Economic Liberty: Economic Liberty is the liberty wherein the people work hard in order to earn a living. This liberty goes beyond colour, creed, caste, or religion.
6. Domestic Liberty: Domestic Liberty is defined as liberty having equal rights for men and women. This kind of liberty includes protection from exploitation, violence, etc.

So, these are the significant types of liberties. Freedom and liberty is a significant topic that has gained attention time and again. The protests and wars had one primary aim, i.e., to gain freedom. Thus, freedom and liberty has been an essential concept in the history of nations.