The concept of existential freedom and social freedom has been widely debated in the field of philosophy and sociology for centuries. Existential freedom refers to an individual's ability to make choices that are determined solely by their own inner thoughts, feelings, and beliefs without external pressure or influence. On the other hand, social freedom is defined as the ability to exercise personal freedoms within society without facing discrimination or prejudice based on factors such as race, gender, religion, class, sexual orientation, disability, age, etc. In the context of marginalized identities, these concepts take on a deeper meaning, as individuals often face obstacles that restrict their ability to fully express themselves or access resources. The purpose of this article is to explore how existential freedom differs from social freedom for individuals who identify with marginalized identities and how they navigate between these concepts to live authentically.
Existential freedom can be understood as the freedom to choose one's identity and expression. It involves making decisions based on personal preferences and values rather than outside influences. This type of freedom allows individuals to be true to themselves and pursue what they believe in without fear of judgment or reprisal.
It does not guarantee protection against external forces that may prevent them from exercising their rights.
A transgender person may have the existential freedom to transition genders but still face discrimination and exclusion in certain spaces because of their identity. Similarly, a queer person may feel free to explore their sexuality without restrictions but still experience stigma and discrimination due to societal norms.
Social freedom, on the other hand, refers to the right to participate fully in society without discrimination or oppression. This includes having equal access to education, employment, housing, healthcare, political representation, and other resources. Marginalized individuals often face barriers to accessing these resources, which limits their ability to engage with society and exercise their freedoms.
A disabled person may struggle to find accessible transportation or buildings that accommodate their needs. A racial minority may face bias when applying for jobs or housing. A woman may face gender-based violence and harassment in public spaces. As a result, they may choose to limit their social interactions or participation to avoid these obstacles.
The intersection between existential and social freedom is complex. Individuals may experience both forms of freedom simultaneously, but they may also encounter conflicts where one overlaps with the other.
A black gay man may enjoy existential freedom by being openly gay but struggle with social freedom due to racism and homophobia. They may seek supportive communities or activism to navigate this tension, seeking acceptance and equality while remaining true to themselves. The same can be said for women who pursue careers in male-dominated fields or transgender people who must navigate a cis-heteronormative world.
Existential freedom and social freedom are two distinct concepts that intersect for marginalized identities. Existential freedom allows individuals to express themselves freely but does not guarantee protection against external forces. Social freedom enables full participation in society but can come at the cost of self-expression. Understanding the differences between these concepts helps us better understand how marginalized groups navigate societal structures and live authentically despite the obstacles they face.
How does existential freedom differ from social freedom in the context of marginalized identities?
Existential freedom refers to the ability to make choices based on one's personal beliefs, values, and identity rather than being constrained by external factors such as social norms, cultural expectations, or institutional structures. In contrast, social freedom is defined as the absence of restrictions or limitations imposed by society or other individuals that prevent an individual from engaging in certain activities or behaviors.