Freedom and American Society – Key Vocabulary & Quotations

Vocabulary flashcards covering key philosophical terms and major quotations related to freedom, law, religion, and governance in American society.

Moral Relativism

The belief that no absolute, universal standards of right and wrong exist; morality depends on time, place, or culture.

Moral Absolutism

The view that objective, unchanging moral principles apply to all people at all times.

Nihilism

The doctrine that there is no truth or inherent purpose; human existence lacks objective meaning (“nothingness”).

Isonomia

Ancient Greek concept meaning “equal laws,” an early expression of the Western ideal of equality under the Rule of Law.

Libido Dominandi

Latin for “lust for power”; St. Augustine’s phrase describing humanity’s will to dominate others.

Rule of Law

Principle that all persons, including rulers, are subject to the same laws, ensuring equality and protection of freedom.

“Where there is no law, there is no freedom.”

John Locke’s assertion that liberty depends on the existence of law.

“Give me liberty or give me death.”

Patrick Henry’s rallying cry for American independence expressing willingness to die for freedom.

“The history of liberty is the history of the limitations placed upon government.”

Woodrow Wilson’s observation that freedom grows as governmental power is restrained.

“Justice is the end of government.”

James Madison’s statement that the purpose of government is to secure justice.

“Without justice, what are kingdoms but great robber bands?”

St. Augustine’s warning that states lacking justice are merely organized theft.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident… life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”

Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence affirming God-given, unalienable rights of all people.

“There is no such thing as a free lunch.”

Milton Friedman’s reminder that every benefit has a cost paid by someone.

“As members of Congress we have no right to appropriate a dollar of the public money.”

Davy Crockett’s stance that charity with personal funds is permissible, but public funds must not be used for private benevolence.

“Political as well as spiritual freedom is the gift of God through Christ.”

Thomas Paine’s claim that liberty originates from divine providence.

“Religion is the first of the Americans’ political institutions.”

Alexis de Tocqueville’s insight that religion undergirds American political life.

“Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure… these liberties are of the gift of God?”

Thomas Jefferson’s question linking belief in divine origin of rights to their preservation.

“Religion is the opium of the masses.”

Karl Marx’s critique that religion pacifies people and dulls revolutionary energy.

“The King is under God and under law.”

Bracton’s medieval formulation that monarchs are subject to divine and legal authority.

“Religion and morality are indispensable supports… virtue a necessary spring of popular government.”

George Washington’s farewell address stressing that religion and morality are essential to political prosperity.

“I disagree with everything you say, but I will defend with my life your right to say it.”

Voltaire’s famous defense of freedom of speech.

“Power tends to corrupt and absolute power tends to corrupt absolutely.”

Lord Acton’s warning that unchecked power leads to moral decay.