We are willing enough to praise freedom when she is safely tucked away in the past and cannot be a nuisance. In the present, amidst dangers whose outcome we cannot foresee, we get nervous about her, and admit censorship.

Summary

This quote highlights the paradoxical nature of our attitude towards freedom. We are quick to celebrate and praise the concept of freedom, but only when it pertains to historical events or moments that are not currently threatening or inconvenient. However, when faced with uncertain and potentially dangerous circumstances in the present, we become anxious and are inclined to accept censorship as a means of preserving security and stability. It sheds light on how our perception of freedom often changes based on our immediate context and the level of perceived risk involved.

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