This archive report was first published on 27 July 2019.
On July 27, 2019, Philip Ochieng wrote about the importance of understanding the concept of freedom in society.
Freedom of expression is a vital aspect of human life, but it can be a double-edged sword. While it allows individuals to express themselves freely, it can also lead to chaos and disorder if not exercised responsibly.
As Ochieng noted, the law against libel is a good example of how societies can impose laws to regulate freedom of expression. This law is in place to prevent individuals from using their freedom to harm others through false or malicious statements.
However, the question remains: can a society function effectively where every individual is free to express themselves without considering the impact on others?
According to Ochieng, the answer is no. He argued that humanity's brain is designed to remember that excessive freedom can lead to social chaos, which can ultimately threaten the survival of the society.
As a result, Ochieng concluded that freedom must be exercised with care and responsibility. This means that individuals must use their freedom to express themselves in a way that does not harm others.
He also noted that even the freest society can reach a point where its leaders use their freedom to threaten social order. This is a warning sign that the society is heading towards chaos and disorder.
As Ochieng pointed out, the media often use the word 'freedom' loosely, but this can be a recipe for disaster if not exercised responsibly.
He cited the example of Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, who has publicly spoken about the importance of exercising freedom responsibly. Matiang'i's words serve as a reminder that freedom must be used with care and consideration for others.
