The cycle is repeated from age to age with each new generation.

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First they convince you that freedom is impractical.

“It’s nice in theory, but not realistic.”

Then they convince you that freedom is insensitive.

“I love liberty too, but I also love people.”

Then they convince you that freedom is immoral.

“You’re being selfish by putting your individual rights before this person’s pain.”

Then they convince you to sacrifice your freedom on the altar of the greater good.

“Give us the power to legislate your behavior and dictate your decisions. We promise to use that power in a way that benefits everyone. You can trust us. We know what’s best.”

Then they destroy the world and pin the blame on you.

“This would’ve never happened had you given up your freedoms earlier. It’s your fault for being so selfish.”

And the cycle is repeated from age to age with each new generation being duped into believing that authoritarianism was the sort of thing that could only go wrong during more primitive times.

COLUMN BY

T. K. Coleman

T.K. Coleman is the Director of Entrepreneurial Education at FEE and is best described as a passionate voice for possibility. As a firm believer in the idea that freedom begins from within, his life mission is to help people reclaim a sense of personal power in their everyday lives.

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