Freedom according to Winthrop & Paine
While the United States is often viewed as an embodiment of freedom and democracy, much is still debated about exactly what freedom means to us. Many people have had their own definitions and visions of freedom since the beginning of the colonial era. John Winthrop who was first governor of Massachusetts gave the “City Upon a Hill”, or “A Model of Christian Charity” speech on the way to New World. He outlines his hopes for their future, emphasizing cooperation and love, in it. It is strongly religious, often referring to God or specific events from Scripture. Thomas Paine shared his views on different aspects of the nation, more than 100 years later. He condemned slavery in “African Slavery in America”, one of his works. He denounces monarchy in “Common Sense” and explains why the United States should not have it. His ideas are also based on a religious foundation. Winthrop as well as Paine stress their belief that all human beings are intrinsically equal and should treat them equally to uphold freedom’s ideals. Winthrop is a strong believer in loving the enemy, accepting suffering, and defending freedom. Paine however affirms individuals’ right to control their circumstances and their freedom.
John Winthrop gives his speech aboard the Arabella to encourage his fellow pilgrims and to build a community of love, cooperation, and support when they arrive at their destination. His Puritan values stand out, especially when he emphasizes compassion. He declares that everyone is commanded to love their neighbor as himself and that all men should “each man lend his support to another” (Winthrop 2). All human beings should be treated equal. He will be satisfied with the success of their community if they are helpful and kind to each other. He hopes that their community will honor God and live out the values He cherishes. Winthrop’s argument is strengthened by the golden principle, which is one of the central tenets in Christianity and all major religions. He uses Matthew 7 to12 to remind us that we should “in all things do unto others as we would have them do unto us”. Winthrop’s plan of American freedom is based on the simple rule: compassion. They must be kind and respectful to one another if they are to live free from the tyranny in Europe and the persecution. If they are generous and kind, they can contribute to a free community. Winthrop uses the golden rule to demonstrate his vision of freedom. Winthrop emphasizes the importance of loving each other, and not just for those who show compassion but also for everyone. Although freedom is important and essential, Winthrop believes unity is the best way for freedom to be achieved. Matthew 5.44 reads, “Love Your Enemies…Do Good to Those Who Hate You.” It is common in the Bible that people show kindness even in the face violence and hatred; Christianity holds great importance to mercy and gentleness. It is amazing to see Winthrop being so strict about this. He doesn’t think freedom for anyone is important. His religious beliefs are what are most important. He does believe that everyone must love one another in order to become a “city of the hill,” an example for everyone to follow in their quest to freedom. He doesn’t wish to create an environment where they can be oppressed again. Everyone deserves equal treatment. Winthrop believes it is essential to have a relationship with others. To do this, Winthrop recommends that we form a “laboratory for love” and to do what is best for them. He believes it is important that people help one another because it fosters a positive attitude. Winthrop hopes that Winthrop will create a peaceful environment where people can work together for the common good. Paine also talks about the inherent equality between all people. Winthrop, he agrees that everyone deserves to receive good treatment. He also mentions Matthew 7:12 when he says that people should “do unto other men as they would do to them” (Slavery 2). His take on the “African Slavery in America” is a reminder to Americans to not only give the best treatment to others, but also to look at this from the perspective the dehumanizing people are. Americans are fighting for liberty, and Paine wants to remind them that all persons deserve freedom. Everyone will make a better community if they look out for each other’s wellbeing and work together to help the community. Both Winthrop as Paine acknowledge that there will be some inequality in wealth and class, but this does not mean that everyone should be treated differently. Paine wants Americans to show compassion and justice through allowing all to be free. Paine’s approach to unjust treatment differs from Winthrop’s. He urges all people who are hurt to seek justice and to be free. Paine believes freedom is for everyone. He claims that “the slave, who has right to his freedom, is entitled to it” (Slavery 2). Paine considers it a shame that people would use the Bible to justify slavery and the theft of equality and freedom from other humans. Paine is arguing for monarchy in “Common Sense” and he cites Judges 9:23. This states that no one “shall rule over your… THE LORD RULE OVER US”. Paine believed that man shouldn’t be ruled by others, whether they are slaves under masters or Americans under an English monarch. Everyone deserves the freedom that human beings have, regardless of their beliefs. In “Common Sense”, he also discusses how monarchies are guilty of choosing which parts they support in Scripture. Paine asserts that this is wrong. He cites instances of slavery from the Bible but disregards the parts about love and equality. Paine argued that Americans should take corrective action in cases of independence from slavery and monarchy. His belief in liberty reflects his view of America. He believes that all human beings should be treated fairly and are able to make their own decisions. Winthrop, Paine and their respective views on freedom are different but they both believe that all people were created equal and must be treated the same. Both men support the golden rule, which encourages their peers to share the Christian values to love, compassion, generosity, and to help others. Winthrop, however, and Paine have different views on how to respond when confronted with a violation of this rule. Winthrop stresses the importance of loving your enemy, while still adhering to strong Biblical support. He believes God is calling them first to “love [their] opponent” because it will make a community of people just and compassionate. He believes that freedom means to live in peace and not disturb the natural order. Paine expresses an active stance later, as the United States move closer to independence. His belief in the God-given right of every person makes him support the fight against oppression. Freedom to Paine would mean that everyone can be free from unfit leaders, such a king or slave master. While I tend to agree with Winthrop more, I do think that Paine is more right than Winthrop. Although hatred and violence will not solve any problem, oppressive people should be treated with respect and kindness. However, some people are still suffering and it is necessary to address this. My ideal American freedom would include a country where all citizens can feel free, regardless of their beliefs or birthright.
