Transcendent Freedom: Harmonizing Liberal and Communitarian Perspectives

Abstract

Freedom, a core value that shapes individuals' lives within a political state, has been extensively explored in political philosophy. Its history is complex, stretching from ancient thinkers like Aristotle in his 'Politics' and Plato in his 'Republic' to medieval scholars such as Aquinas, and Enlightenment leaders like Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, and Hegel. More recent scholars, such as Rawls and Arendt, have also deepened our understanding. Today, its definition is primarily viewed through a liberal lens, influenced by social contract theory and a communitarian perspective, as outlined by theorists such as Hegel. These views form the basis of modern political and social ideas of freedom. Most scholars argue that this approach more accurately reflects its true meaning. However, we believe these perspectives—whether liberal or communitarian—are limited and cannot fully explain freedom if, as these theorists claim, it is a universal value. In response, this paper will argue that neither perspective provides a complete explanation of freedom. By challenging their narrow view, the paper presents what we call transcendent freedom—a concept that overcomes the flaws of both perspectives and establishes freedom as an authentically universal value.