Freedom is perhaps one of the most sought after human rights. However, different people view freedom in different ways. Total freedom can be defined as the ability to do whatever one wants without any external restrictions or consequences. There is also a lesser yet much more practical degree of freedom. In this degree, one has the right to do what he wants as long as it is not at the expense of another's well-being or property. From a different approach, freedom can also be viewed as a state of mind rather than a government-granted right. It is understandable that anyone who has been denied freedom by their government would have no choice but to revert to freedom of conscience in their effort to pursue peace and happiness. While I believe that a governor should grant his people the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, these are all rights that could be taken away, lost, or not given under another's rule. True freedom is that which cannot be denied or taken by anyone or under any circumstances. To me, the definition of true freedom is that which lies within. .
Theoretically, freedom as a state of mind is achievable by anyone who truly desires it. For instance, most would think that prisoners are totally freedom-less. In reality, a prisoner is only without freedom if he chooses to be. If he can find elements about the world around him that bring him joy and peace, and is not affected by any external beings or forces then he is free. This same theory applies to slaves as well. Despite rather limiting restrictions, if a slave lives his life according to how he feels he should under his given circumstances, and is able to absorb the good out of the world around him, and as a result achieve a state of mind that is happy and peaceful, than he too, is free.
Kris Kristofferson wrote, "Freedom's just another word for nothing left to lose." Freedom that is provided by an external being or force can be lost.