Freedom as an Investment

Undoubtedly, you've heard about the trade deficit and the budget deficit, but I doubt you've heard of the freedom deficit. Yet, it is the freedom deficit which is at the foundation of our economy and society. This concept is based on a theory developed by one M. Devlin Cooper: "Is it not right that in order to get a little freedom one has to give a little freedom?" Cooper asks. At first glance, I am astounded by the depth of this insight. Freedom is not a zero-sum game or even a political ideal as Lord Acton advocated, instead freedom is an investment. The path to greater freedom, much like the path to economic growth is saving (i.e. NOT using your freedoms TODAY, but rather giving them to another organization (the GOVERNMENT) to use in the production of MORE freedom in the future (through war, regulations, programs, etc!) The problem? Americans don't invest enough in freedom. It's quite easy. Man is born in a state of nature which some would call perfect freedom. What a miserable, solitary existence! The story of the 20th Century has been one of individuals voluntarily giving up a resource (freedom) to governments. And look at the results! Advances in science, industry and culture! But, while citizens around the world continue to demostrate their willingless to give up more freedom, Americans seem to resist! I hear the incessant whining about the war on terrorism or new restrictions that violate the Bill of Rights! Don't be fooled! The Founding Fathers subsisted on water, tobacco and the fruits of slavery! Without the adequate investment in freedom (as demonstrated by the decline in freedom during the 19th and 20th centuries), we would not enjoy "the land of the free and home of the brave" that we now inhabit. Don't focus on the short run! Giving up your freedom in favor of more government programs, controls and regulation (what I like to call benevolent or voluntary tyranny) will lead to even greater freedoms in the future. So, in the interest of freedom, consider giving up more freedoms today and help build a solid accumulation of freedom for the future! If not for yourself, do it for your children.