One of my favorite quotes of all time is what Roman Historian Sallust once said: ‘Few people prefer liberty, most people would settle for a fair master.’
I think most people see this as a self justification on the part of the 'elite' for controlling the poor. As such, they never give it any real thought. It is against our nature to accept being slaves. We are taught that we all should want to have power, but never to be held power over.
Barry Schwartz gives a speech that is related to this. He talks of a solution at the end, but it's not one that i think is the best fit.
Watch the video here (TED conference)
How many times have you heard someone, or maybe even yourself, lament about how they wish they were back in high school, or living with their parents. Because it means they don't have anything to worry about. Aren't these people aslo admiting (without admitting it
) that they are willing to give up freedom for a less complicated lifestyle, with more happiness.
Maybe some people would be happier if they just chose someone to be a slave to, so they could just focus on enjoying themselves. Some people already have.
I'd love to hear other peoples thoughts on this.