Right of Free Will – 自由意識選擇權

Right of Free Will – 自由意識選擇權

In his “Universal Principle of Right”, philosopher Immanuel Kant said:
[Every action is right which in itself, or in the maxim on which is proceeds, is such that it can coexist along with the freedom of the will of each and all in action, according to a universal law.

I, then, my action or my condition generally can coexist with the freedom of every others, according to a universal law, any one does me a wrong who hinders me in the performance of this action, or in the maintenance of this condition. For such a hindrance or obstruction can not coexist with freedom according to universal laws.

It follows also that I can not be demanded as a matter of right, that this universal principle of all maxims shall itself be adopted as my maxim, that is, that I shall make it the maxim of my actions. For anyone may be free, although his freedom is entirely indifferent to me, or even if I wish in my heart to infringe it, so long as I do not actually violate tha freedom by my external action. Ethics, however, as distinguished from jurisprudence, impose upon me the obligation to make the fulfillment of right a maxim of my conduct.

The universal law of right may be then be expressed thus: ”Act externally in such a manner that the free exercise of thy will may be able to coexist with the freedom of all others, according a universal law.”………..] * End of quote.

Th philosophy of Right of Free Will under the context of Kant’s universal principleof right has been the driving force of Western civilization. It is also the principle of democracy in modern society.

Recently, the hot news in Taiwan are: (1) the 319 demonstration for setting up special investigation committee on the assassination attempt on DPP presidential and VP candidates Mr. Chen Shui-ben and Ms Lu Shio-lien on March 19, 2004; (2) Passing of “Anti-Secession Law” (ASL) by NCPR of PRC on March 14. Majority of people on Taiwan resent this action of PRC even though PRC officials said it is only applicable when Taiwan decides to go independent. President Chen Shui-ben called for massive demonstration on 326 to protest this law. According to the poll conducted by China Times ( a newspaper company in Taiwan), the poll showed that 62% of those interviewed can’t accept ASL. However, there is only 23% of the interviewed persons indicated they are pro-Taiwan Independence. Many scholars and writers in Taiwan openly stated that they are against ASL mainly the law is against the right of free will in the modern civilized society. This group of people said that although the poll indicates only 23% of people polled is pro-Taiwan Independence and they planned to join the 326 demonstration, majority of 62% will still speak out for those 23% to protest against ASL.

I believe all people on Taiwan should speak out and protest the violation of their Right of Free Will by ASL. Collaterally, each political party in Taiwan should proudly declares their party's political ideology and policy but avoid claiming that they represent all people on Taiwan. By doing that (the latter one), they are violating the same right of other parties. This is a good time to show the world the true democracy of Taiwan.