When We Were Free
摘要
In this chapter, I explore the concept of freedom by examining human behavior from evolutionary, psychological, and historical perspectives. I begin by acknowledging the everyday experiences of restricted freedom in modern life, such as rigid workplace rules and the lack of work-life balance. Drawing from decades of psychological practice and visualization exercises, I illustrate a universal desire for meaningful work and social connection. The chapter argues that, despite advancements, modern society has increasingly restricted personal freedom, and those restrictions are exacerbated by socioeconomic disparities I trace the roots of human freedom back to our ancestors, who, for millennia, lived in egalitarian societies with minimal work hours, ample free time, and strong community bonds. Insights from primatology and anthropology suggest that humans, like our primate relatives, have evolved to value both cooperation and autonomy. The chapter critiques the modern capitalist notion of freedom, which equates liberty with economic success, and argues instead for a return to a more natural state of human living, where freedom is defined by the ability to engage in everyday activities that bring joy and fulfillment. The author challenges the views of scholars like Yuval Harari, who dismiss liberty as a modern invention, by asserting that true freedom is rooted in our evolutionary past and is essential to our well-being. The chapter concludes by advocating for a societal shift toward a social condition that honors our intrinsic need for a balance of community and autonomy, suggesting that this is the key to both individual freedom and collective liberty.