Étienne de La Boétie "The Discourse of Voluntary Servitude" is a groundbreaking work by the French political philosopher Étienne de La Boétie, completed in 1548 when he was just 18 years old. Despite its brevity, the treatise presents profound insights into the nature of political authority and the dynamics of power. La Boétie's central thesis revolves around the question of why individuals submit themselves to tyrannical rule. He argues that while tyrants may possess coercive force, their power ultimately relies on the voluntary obedience of the people.
This voluntary submission, according to La Boétie, is what sustains tyranny and enables it to persist over time. The key concept explored in "The Discourse of Voluntary Servitude" is that of "voluntary servitude" or "voluntary slavery." La Boétie contends that people willingly surrender their freedom to a ruler out of habit, fear, or a desire for security and stability. He explores the psychological mechanisms through which individuals become complicit in their own oppression, emphasizing the role of conformity, apathy, and the desire for comfort in perpetuating tyrannical regimes.
La Boétie also delves into the concept of legitimacy, arguing that tyrants maintain their power by creating the illusion of authority through propaganda, ideology, and manipulation of public opinion. He challenges the notion that rulers possess a natural right to rule and asserts that political authority ultimately derives from the consent of the governed.
Furthermore, La Boétie explores the dynamics of resistance and revolution, advocating for the idea that tyrants can be overthrown through collective action and nonviolent resistance. He emphasizes the power of solidarity and the importance of individuals asserting their autonomy and refusing to cooperate with oppressive systems.
"The Discourse of Voluntary Servitude" is not only a critique of tyranny but also a call to action for individuals to resist unjust authority and reclaim their freedom. La Boétie's insights have influenced generations of thinkers and activists, contributing to the development of theories of civil disobedience, revolution, and the struggle for human rights. Here is a link to the PDF version in English (of course it is an interesting read in French as well). You might enjoy it. Following the commentary the book begins on page 37.If you a freedom lover, you might find it interesting.
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