Trying to pretend that "freedom" or "democracy" are grand narratives, is a technique which benefits only those who want to use these words as the excuse for their own naked national, or financial power.
For example, people are trying to start a war with Iran on the basis that (they say) it is not "free" and that it is "authoritarian" - but these are just matters of opinion at the end of the day.
In some ways, Iranians will be freer and less authoritarian than we here in the UK, and in other ways not!
"understand that the story of not just the West — but the entire world — is an imperfect, incomplete struggle for freedom".
This is not so.
"Freedom" is a relative concept, always dependent upon circumstances, and has no substantial form. To try to turn it into a political fact to govern our lives is a fool's errand.
Trying to pretend that "freedom" or "democracy" are grand narratives, is a technique which benefits only those who want to use these words as the excuse for their own naked national, or financial power.
For example, people are trying to start a war with Iran on the basis that (they say) it is not "free" and that it is "authoritarian" - but these are just matters of opinion at the end of the day.
In some ways, Iranians will be freer and less authoritarian than we here in the UK, and in other ways not!
Who cares? Only those seeking excuses for war.
"understand that the story of not just the West — but the entire world — is an imperfect, incomplete struggle for freedom".
This is not so.
"Freedom" is a relative concept, always dependent upon circumstances, and has no substantial form. To try to turn it into a political fact to govern our lives is a fool's errand.
Very informative and well-argued