Discussion on Sovereignty

We all want to feel in control of our own lives. We like it when things go our way. But often, that’s not the case. Outside forces and other people are beyond our control. Even our ideas aren’t truly our own—they’re inherited from past generations, sometimes going back millennia. And some ideas seem to take hold involuntarily, whether through manipulation, social pressure, or sheer memetic strength.

We're also subject to the machinery of politics and power. In any organized society, those in power can shape the lives of the people: What laws are enforced? How much are we taxed? What can we say, where can we go, who can we meet?

Even economic freedom affects our sovereignty. If we’re heavily taxed, we have less freedom to act on our own values. We may need to work more just to maintain our quality of life. If we’re lucky, the state’s interests align with ours—but what if they don’t?

Even the dream of total independence—living off the land, raising chickens and cows—still depends on the state protecting property rights from thieves and foreign powers.

Is true sovereignty possible for an individual? If so, how can it be achieved?

And if being governed is inevitable, what principles should a just society insist on?

What makes a good ruler?

Join us this Saturday as we explore and shed light on these questions.