Dependencies and Freedom
Abstract
This article explores the multifaceted concept of dependency and its ontological relationship with human freedom. The author argues that dependency extends far beyond substance abuse (drugs or alcohol), manifesting as a pervasive element of daily habits and psychological attachments. Drawing on Aristotelian ethics, the study distinguishes between habits that contribute to the cultivation of virtue and those that lead to the loss of self-determination. The paper analyzes how biological development and consciousness influence an individual's capacity for autonomous action, suggesting that true freedom is not the absence of influence but the ability to consciously choose one's commitments. By examining the tension between mechanical habituation and mindful decision-making, the author concludes that overcoming negative dependencies is essential for achieving a state of ethical liberty and authentic existence.
Article Details
- How to Cite
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Papaioannou, G. I. (2020). Dependencies and Freedom . Ηθική. Περιοδικό φιλοσοφίας, (3), 37–40. https://doi.org/10.12681/ethiki.22655
- Issue
- No. 3 (2007)
- Section
- Articles
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