Fair enough. Far be it for me to argue with a smurf. :)
I, too, stand by what I said.
Too many people do not understand the distinction between true freedom (with certain voluntary restrictions for the sake of civilized society), and 'being subject to the whims of a ruling class'.
I've thought about the semantics a bit more, and I realize where the problem (that I have) lies...
When used as a singular noun, both 'freedom' and 'liberty' are fine, as they (essentially) mean the same thing. ('Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness...')
But when used as a plural noun ('liberties'), it implies that someone is enumerating special situations where you are free (and perhaps temporarily) from within an assumption of 'overall non-freedom'.
Bottom line, your 'You Me Us' still applies. I shall no longer object to the word 'liberty', but I am still quite wary of the word 'liberties'.
As much as I appreciate your use of semantics:
lib·er·ty
/ˈlibərdē/
noun
1. the state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.
"compulsory retirement would interfere with individual liberty"
2. the power or scope to act as one pleases.
"individuals should enjoy the liberty to pursue their own interests and preferences"
I stand by what I said.
Fair enough. Far be it for me to argue with a smurf. :)
I, too, stand by what I said.
Too many people do not understand the distinction between true freedom (with certain voluntary restrictions for the sake of civilized society), and 'being subject to the whims of a ruling class'.
You
Me
Us
Very funny.
I've thought about the semantics a bit more, and I realize where the problem (that I have) lies...
When used as a singular noun, both 'freedom' and 'liberty' are fine, as they (essentially) mean the same thing. ('Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness...')
But when used as a plural noun ('liberties'), it implies that someone is enumerating special situations where you are free (and perhaps temporarily) from within an assumption of 'overall non-freedom'.
Bottom line, your 'You Me Us' still applies. I shall no longer object to the word 'liberty', but I am still quite wary of the word 'liberties'.
We have the smartest people, don't we folks?