Wenn jeder an sich denkt, ist nicht an alle gedacht

Jan Skudlarek invites us to reconsider the kindergarten-level understanding of current liberal concepts of freedom. It concerns nothing less than our future. Whether it’s mandatory vaccinations, abortion bans, conscription, or cannabis legalization – ethical questions affect us all. Is the common good more important than self-interest? Or: My body, my choice? The philosopher Jan Skudlarek discusses the major contentious issues in our society, uncovers common misconceptions and false arguments, and thus creates a concrete guide for solidarity in times of crisis. Over forty years ago, the philosopher Hans Jonas published his seminal work, in which he explored where individual freedom ends: The Principle of Responsibility. Today, the question of freedom and responsibility is more pressing than ever – and simultaneously unresolved. What exactly is responsibility? Why is it so difficult for us? And why is it that not everyone is considered when each person thinks only of themselves? Just as a person is more than the sum of their cells and a city is more than the sum of its buildings, the current crises show us that the human community is more than just the mere sum of its selfish individuals. But how can societal cohesion be achieved in times of crisis? In this book, Jan Skudlarek envisions a new "we": one that can be united with our pursuit of freedom and self-determination. One that is based on solidarity. A "we" that supports and connects rather than excludes and divides. When freedom becomes toxic, solidarity is the answer. Jan Skudlarek proposes a new concept of freedom that guides us through the crises of our time. A wise, nuanced book.