The Limits of Freedom... A Reading in Voltaire's Philosophy

Abstract

Voltaire's idea of ​​freedom revolves around freedom of thought and expression, which is the foundation of human progress. He is a defender of the right of man to freely express his opinions, even if that freedom differs from the opinions of the authorities or the prevailing opinion in society. He believes that suppressing ideas prevents discussion and the search for truth. He emphasizes the importance of questioning established and ancient beliefs and calls on people to think critically. In addition, Voltaire calls for tolerance as a necessity for preserving freedom. Voltaire believes that freedom is not a random act or the ability to do something absolutely and directly, but rather a mental ability that stems from awareness and free choice of human actions. Therefore, freedom for him is the intrinsic ability to implement what the human will dictates inevitably and directly. Voltaire's idea of ​​liberty was inspired by the prevailing English experience at the time, which granted freedom of intellectual opinion and religious pluralism. He believed that freedom of expression was the cornerstone of human progress. He rejected false religious ideas and superstitions that destroy reason and morality, but he was not an atheist or rejected complete belief in the existence of God. He advocated religious tolerance and coexistence between religions and sects within the framework of the city-state.