![Sample our Area Studies journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5922/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Area-Studies.jpg"})
Abstract
The number of laws, rules and regulations which govern the life of the individual in the modern state tend to increase rather than diminish. History also indicates that not only the democratic form of government is viable but that alternative forms of government likewise thrive under modern circumstances. It is therefore necessary to realise that liberty is still of utmost importance in the life of the individual citizen and a worthy subject of study and discussion.
Liberty and authority, however, are not mutually exclusive but have a complementary relationship and authoritative actions should therefore be accepted, as long as they do not take on an arbitrary nature. This implies that liberty is not a negative concept but rather points in the direction of opportunities for the citizen to create that which is worth while. The citizen should thus have certain inalienable rights whereas the principle of equality should likewise be accepted.
Political liberty means the ability to partake in the political process and although the concept of liberty forms a definite whole, political liberty can be regarded as the condition for the realisation of all other aspects of liberty.