The 3 main types of freedom according to Mortimer Adler

 Mortimer Adler, a prominent philosopher and educator, extensively discussed the concept of freedom in his works, identifying and elaborating on different types of freedom that are essential to human life and society. Based on the retrieved documents from the context, I will outline Adler’s perspectives on the various types of freedom he categorized.

Adler primarily identifies three distinct types of freedom: circumstantial freedom of self-realization, acquired freedom of self-perfection, and natural freedom of self-determination. Circumstantial freedom of self-realization refers to the ability of an individual to act according to their desires and plans without external constraints such as imprisonment or coercion. This type of freedom is dependent on external conditions and circumstances that allow individuals to pursue their goals [1][3].

The second type, acquired freedom of self-perfection, pertains to the internal development of an individual’s character and virtues. According to Adler, this freedom is achieved through education, moral growth, and the cultivation of good habits that enable a person to make wise and ethical choices. It is not merely the absence of external barriers but the presence of internal qualities that guide one toward a fulfilling life [2][5].

Lastly, natural freedom of self-determination is an inherent freedom that every human possesses by virtue of being human. Adler argues that this type of freedom is rooted in the human capacity for free will, allowing individuals to make choices independent of deterministic forces. It is the fundamental ability to choose one’s path in life, irrespective of external or internal influences, and is a universal attribute of human nature [4][6].

Adler’s framework emphasizes that these freedoms are interconnected, and the full realization of human potential requires the presence of all three types. While circumstantial freedom provides the external conditions necessary for action, acquired freedom equips individuals with the moral and intellectual tools to act wisely, and natural freedom underpins the very possibility of choice itself [7][8].

In summary, Mortimer Adler’s classification of freedom into circumstantial, acquired, and natural types offers a comprehensive understanding of the different dimensions in which freedom operates in human life, highlighting the importance of both external conditions and internal development in achieving true liberation.

Sources

1 Oxford Guide to Philosophy edited by Ted Honderich

2 The Great Ideas A Syntopicon, Volume 1, Edited by Robert Maynard Hutchins and Mortimer Adler

3 50 Philosophy Ideas by Ben Dupre

4 Founders of Western Philosophy by Leonard Peikoff

5 The DIM Hypothesis by Leonard Peikoff

6 The Great Ideas A Syntopicon, Volume 2, Edited by Robert Maynard Hutchins and Mortimer Adler

7 The Sociology of Philosophies by Randall Collins

8 The Study of Philosophy by S. Morris Engel

In addition:

Here is more information about the different types of freedom according to Mortimer Adler. In addition to the detailed explanation provided earlier, I’d like to expand on some nuances and interconnections between these types of freedom as reflected in the retrieved documents from the context.

Firstly, regarding circumstantial freedom of self-realization, this type of freedom is heavily influenced by the societal and environmental conditions in which an individual exists. Adler emphasizes that without the removal of external barriers such as oppression or poverty, individuals cannot fully exercise their ability to pursue personal goals. This aspect of freedom is often contingent upon political and economic structures that either enable or restrict personal actions [1][3].

Secondly, the acquired freedom of self-perfection is not merely a personal achievement but also a societal one. Adler suggests that education systems and cultural values play a significant role in fostering the virtues and wisdom necessary for this type of freedom. It involves a lifelong process of learning and self-discipline, where individuals refine their moral compass to make decisions that align with the greater good. This internal freedom is crucial for sustaining the other types of freedom over time [2][5].

Lastly, natural freedom of self-determination, as Adler describes, is the bedrock of human agency. It exists regardless of external circumstances or internal development because it is an intrinsic part of human nature. This freedom allows individuals to conceptualize and choose between different paths, even in the face of adversity. Adler posits that this fundamental capacity for choice is what distinguishes humans from other beings and is a prerequisite for the other forms of freedom to have meaning [4][6].

Furthermore, Adler highlights that the interplay between these freedoms is essential for a balanced and fulfilling life. For instance, circumstantial freedom without the guidance of acquired freedom might lead to aimless or destructive choices, while natural freedom without circumstantial support remains theoretical and unexpressed. The synergy of all three creates the conditions for true human flourishing [1][2].

Sources

1 The Great Ideas A Syntopicon, Volume 1, Edited by Robert Maynard Hutchins and Mortimer Adler

2 Oxford Guide to Philosophy edited by Ted Honderich

3 The Great Ideas A Syntopicon, Volume 2, Edited by Robert Maynard Hutchins and Mortimer Adler

4 Founders of Western Philosophy by Leonard Peikoff

5 The DIM Hypothesis by Leonard Peikoff

6 The Great Ideas by Mortimer Adler