Security and Freedom

A Page on Freedom Number 19 Securityand Freedom MANY VICTIMS wander unwittingly into socialism, gulled by assumptions they have not tested. One popular but misleading assumption is that security and freedom are mutually exclusive alternatives-that to choose one is to forgo the other. In the United States during the past century more people achieved greater material security than their ancestors had ever known in any previous society. Large numbers of people in this country ac cumulated a comfortable nest egg, so that "come hell or high water" depressions, old age, sickness, or whatever-they could rely on the saved fruits of their own labor to carry them through any storm or temporary setback. By reason of unprecedented freedom of choice, unparalleled opportunities, provident living, and the right to the fruits of their own labor-private property-they were able to meet the many exigencies which arise in the course of a lifetime.

We think of these enviable, personal achievements as security. But this type of security is not an alternative to freedom; rather, it is an outgrowth of freedom. This traditional security stems from freedom as the oak from an acorn. It is not a case of either/or; one without the other is impossible. Freedom sets the stage for all the security available in this uncertain world. @ -Leonard E. Read THE FOUNDATIONFOR ECONOMICEDUCATION,INC. IRVINGTON-ON-HUDSON,NEW YORK 10533 259 John K. Williams The Pied Piper and Our Children ONE of the most delightful poems ever penned is Robert Browning's "The Pied Piper of Hamelin." Chil dren delight in hearing it. The poem tells an exciting story and tells it well, Browning's choice of words and use of meter reflecting and reinforc ing the events described. Indeed, the poem has served me well. As a doting uncle not infre quently charged with the welcome task of minding my nephew and nieces, the poem has enabled me to lure Kristine, Elizabeth and Patrick away from the television set for what I fondly imagine is culturally a more edifying experience. More: while heaven forbid that I ever would abuse my role as trusted childThe Reverend Doctor John K. Williams has been a teacher and currently does freelance writing and lecturing from his base In North Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.