A note on a possible mathematical approach to the theory of individual freedom

Abstract

As suggested in previous publications, freedom may be defined quantitatively as a restriction upon the choice of a number of activities. If the choice is determined by maximizing the satisfaction function, it is suggested that freedom may be defined in terms of the satisfaction function. If an individual is isolated and no physical restrictions limit his choice of activities, he is free to choose any activity in an amount which maximizes his satisfaction. This isolated state may be considered therefore as that of maximum freedom. If the individual interacts with another, he will choose different amounts of his object of satisfaction depending on whether he behaves egoistically or altruistically. But in either case the value chosen will not maximize his satisfaction function considered alone. A simple analytical expression is suggested as a measure of freedom in this case, and some problems which arise from this suggestion are mentioned.