Outline the difference between "positive" and "negative" freedom?

The distinction between positive and negative notions of freedom can be traced to Isaiah Berlin and his 1936 essay: "Two Concepts of Liberty". Negative freedom is defined as freedom from obstacles, and external constraints. For example, I have the negative freedom to go outside and walk my dog because the state does not place constraints on when or if I can take my dog for a walk. Positive freedom by contrast concerns itself with possessing the necessary capabilities to carry out my will and desires. For example, I may be scared of the outdoors. This has left me unable to walk my dog outside. In the negative sense of freedom, I am free because I am not restricted or constrained by any other individual or the state to go outside and walk my dog. Positive freedom however would argue that I am not truly free, as while I may not have others externally constraining my will, I am inhibited or unable to exercise my freedom due to other internal factors; namely my fear of the outdoors. It would follow from a positive freedom standpoint, that I am not free until I overcome the internal factors preventing me from exercising my desires and will.

Answered by Rooban S. Politics tutor

15388 Views

See similar Politics A Level tutors

Related Politics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would I structure the question "Discuss the extent to which liberals support equality"?


Why politics matter?


Consider the view that conservatism is opposed to equality


What is Affirmative Action and what are the justifications for it?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences