Such a reactionary concept is violently opposed to the Liberal concept is violently opposed to the Liberal concept of the development of individual dignity. In consequence, individual freedom is fundamental to the Liberal way. It is therefore sharply in contrast with the philosophies of dialectic materialism. Freedom is a relative state. Absolute freedom is anarchy.
Sectional freedom becomes licence or patronage.
When people elect to live together in a free society to benefit by mutual companionship and talents, they elect also to make certain compromises on freedom. Constant vigilance is necessary to prevent the encroachment upon freedom by the State, whether the motive is misguided benevolence or totalitarian in origin. Individual freedom is vital to the development of human dignity. As freedom recedes with the encroachment of the collective State, so human dignity becomes inspired. Liberalism sees merit in human striving.