What Is Freedom By J. M. Jervey Analysis

The Great American There is more to being an American than living in the United States of America. The term “American” is not only used to define the nationality one possesses, but the duty and honor. These citizens have rights and responsibilities, helping not only each other remain united and strong, but their country as well. During the 17th century, men, women and children of Britain immigrated by ship to the new land to establish a new civilization. In their “home” country they were degraded, treated unfairly, voiceless and considered worthless. Despite the hardships these individuals faced, they successfully built their own nation, maintain and respect their rights, and live with pride, strength, and honor. In the early days of America’s existence, there was no official form of government, no social system, no established mode of life and no system

Freedom can mean protection from the government or freedom could mean doing whatever you please. What it does not mean is to be forced to choose between leaving their country and family or being sent to war, or choosing between two negative alternatives. In the piece What is Freedom, written by J.M. Jellison and J.H. Harvey, it is exemplified how a social study on Americans show the different reactions towards situations is addressed to one’s freedom. Individuals will feel freer when choosing between positive alternatives rather than negative alternatives. For example, if one was to receive a bill of $40 with a note stating there will be a fine of $4 if they do not pay within 30 days, they are more likely to feel “trapped, with no desirable alternative” (pg 48). However, if they were proposed the same situation with a different tone, such as receiving the bill of $40 but getting $4 off if they pay within 30 days, they will more likely be satisfied and feel freer. As this is true, freedoms and rights do come with responsibilities that are need to be