Is True Liberty in America Eroding?
In the conceptualization of liberty, it appears abstruse. For it to exist, more consensus as to its definition would be required, which is hardly feasible due to the imperfections of human knowledge and the constant changes in individual circumstances. America remains the closest approximation, but there have been significant backslidings that negate this perception.
The Shift
No more, not anymore. Over the last four decades, Democrats have been diligent in eroding our fundamental rights and freedoms. This erosion has occurred incrementally, making it less noticeable to the common eye. However, when directly comparing the 1960s to today, it becomes evident that the restrictions placed on us have worsened significantly.
Historical Context
Contrasted with the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, an American could freely order any gun over the phone or through the mail, and these firearms would be shipped directly to their doorstep, all while experiencing minimal gun violence. Schools were not places of terror. Freedom in those decades was more pronounced without the pervasive shadow of today's constraints.
Online Freedom and Censorship
Even online, prior to a few years ago, users enjoyed a level of unrestricted expression. Messages posted online could only be censored for content deemed extremely offensive. Today, the landscape is drastically different. While expressing opinions about former president Donald Trump is permissible, any criticism of the current administration, particularly Democratic politicians and the LGBTQ community, can result in censorship and even a ban. This stark contrast reveals the progressively tightening grip on free speech.
Residential Constraints
Living in a neighborhood governed by a homeowners' association (HOA) imposes various restrictions. For instance, parking cars in a driveway for extended periods could result in fines, and homeowners might be barred from having a flagpole in the front yard or a storage shed in the backyard. Swingsets are now subject to scrutiny, even for allowing children outdoor playtime. The freedom to install fences and choose paint colors for one's home is also curtailed.
The “Green” Movement’s Impact
The “green” movement's ambitions have escalated into a form of authoritarianism. The ban on plastic straws and lids on paper cups is common in many places, which, while well-intentioned, has suppressed personal choice. Energy prices, especially for gas, electricity, and natural gas, have skyrocketed. Tax funding is overwhelmingly directed towards solar and wind power, with little regard for those who oppose these initiatives. The Democratic Party's push to ban internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles further exemplifies this trend.
Economic Burdens
The primary culprits behind these restrictions are the Democrats. Their fiscal policies, particularly the intention to write off student loans, are now funded by the very taxes that sustained these policies. The notion of being asked to vote on legislation like forgiving student debts is itself paradoxical and representative of a decline in democratic accountability.
Conclusion
Only the tip of the iceberg of what Americans no longer have control over is discussed here. The erosion of freedom, the tightening of speech codes, property rights, and environmental policies are all symptoms of a shift in the American political landscape. Whether these changes are a testament to a more communal societal preference or a calculated effort to consolidate power remains a matter of debate. As these issues continue to unfold, the discussion of true liberty in America remains crucial.