“Under communism, individuals are merely a means to be used toward the achievement of the ends of the collective nation-state. Thus, individuals can be easily sacrificed for the nation-state’s goals.”
So said national security adviser Robert O’Brien in a major policy speech June 24 to a group of business executives at the Arizona Commerce Authority, adding:
Individuals do not have inherent value under Marxism-Leninism. They exist to serve the state; the state does not exist to serve them.
In marked contrast to Marxist-Leninist ideology, individuals in a free market democracy control the fruits of their own labor and initiative. They are empowered and entitled to pursue their dreams by means of their own free choice.
Indeed, the discussion of freedom to choose has at its core consideration of the relationship between the individual and the state. As a vital component of human dignity, autonomy, and personal empowerment, liberty is valuable as an end unto itself.
Just as important, however, is the fact that freedom provides a proven formula for economic prosperity and societal progress. It’s ultimately about moving societies forward for the benefit of a greater number of people.
Anthony B. Kim – The Daily Signal – July 10, 2020.
