Self-Mastery and Free Choice

Abstract In this chapter, I show how self-mastery is a necessary condition for individual freedom. Only with the help of self-mastery can people unfold realms of their own free developments. This is especially true when a person must restrict his or her own desires, drives, or instincts in cases when these desires, drives, or instincts become a danger to one’s own freedom. One important idea containing self-mastery and free choice is the concept of repentance to start anew. The ability to start anew is the hallmark of the freedom of choice. On the other hand, the ability to do as one pleases is a cornerstone of the idea of freedom as well. In the ancient texts, to do something “out of the joy of one’s heart” comes close to this view. In legal texts, this expression clearly means to act freely and not by external force.